We've been using sunscreen for thousands of years, even though at first we didn't know we needed it

Ancient civilizations used cosmetics to avoid tanning, for status, beauty, and some accidental sun protection.

Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Japanese, Indian, and Chinese practices included oils, powders, and plant-based ingredients.

Some remedies had real UV-blocking value, such as rice bran and zinc oxide, while others, like lead-based powders, were toxic.

The history shows that skin-lightening and sun-protection habits long predate modern sunscreen, and some ideas still inform products today.