18h ago

Leftover Brewing Hops Tripled Sunscreen SPF In Lab Tests

Scientists found that discarded brewing hops dramatically boosted sunscreen SPF. Here's what it could mean for eco-friendly sun care.

Brazilian researchers found that extract from used brewing hops more than tripled a sunscreen’s measured SPF in lab tests, jumping from about 54 to 178 when mixed with water.
Discarded hop material from a technique called dry-hopping retains an estimated 85% of the plant’s beneficial compounds, and was the only source to contain a xanthohumol-related compound linked to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hop extracts boosted UVB protection significantly but did not improve UVA protection, meaning they work as a helper ingredient rather than a replacement for standard UV filters.
All results came from lab testing on plastic plates, not human skin, and the researchers say further studies are needed before this approach could reach consumers.