Squid, octopuses, and other cephalopods can change color in seconds to blend in with their surroundings. This ability comes from cells in the animals’ skin, which contains colored pigments. A few years ago, chemists Camille Martin and Leila Deravi discovered that one of these pigments absorbs visible light and harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. They thought it might be the perfect ingredient to use in sunscreen.
The pair created a synthetic, or lab-made, version of the chemical, which they named Xanthochrome (ZAN-thoh-krohm). Unlike other chemicals commonly used in sunscreens, Xanthochrome doesn’t harm coral reefs if it washes into the ocean. Through their company, Seaspire Skincare, Martin and Deravi are now working to bring this eco-friendly ingredient to market. “We’re creating something safe for people and the environment,” says Martin.