Suncare market grows amid warnings over DIY sunscreen risks

The global suncare market is experiencing significant growth, with estimates from Fortune Business Insights valuing the sector at over $16 billion, projected to exceed $25 billion by the end of the decade. In Europe, sales in six major countries have surpassed €1.6 billion. In Italy, products with an SPF higher than 25 reached a value of €273.2 million in 2025, marking a 5.9% annual increase according to Cosmetica Italia.

This market expansion is driven by a cultural shift toward daily UV protection as a preventive health measure rather than a seasonal necessity. However, experts are warning against a rising trend of DIY sunscreen recipes shared on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Dermatologists caution that homemade mixtures—often involving olive oil, shea butter, or coconut oil—are not regulated or tested for efficacy, water resistance, or long-term UV protection. This trend poses a significant health risk, as users may believe they are protected from harmful rays while remaining vulnerable to skin cancer.