Hats, Shade, and Innovative Ingredients

1st Century

Hats have been ubiquitous as sun protection through the ages. Conical hats were common in Asia at this time, including the nón lá, or "leaf hat,” in Vietnam.

Japanese screens or blinds called sudare date back at least to the Nara Period, 710–794. They offered protection from the sun while allowing air to flow through, and are still used today.

11th Century

In polar regions such as parts of Canada, Alaska, Siberia, and Greenland, indigenous people created goggles from materials like leather, bone, or wood to protect their eyes from sun damage.

Vikings protected their eyes with eyeliner made from almonds, lead, oxidized copper, and ash—a precursor to athletes’ "eye black."

14th Century

The Burmese used thanaka cream from the thanaka tree for sun protection and other skin care benefits. It continues to be used today.