Search for Science Fair Projects

1000 Science Fair Projects with Complete Instructions

Dermatology Science Fair Project

Testing Sunscreen Effectiveness

Hard
Testing Sunscreen Effectiveness | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
We're going to measure the absorbance of sunscreen to determine its effectiveness at blocking UV light. We'll make a series of solutions with different concentrations and measure the absorbance of each. Then we'll compare the extinction coefficients of different SPF factors to determine their relative effectiveness.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that the higher the SPF rating, the more effective the sunscreen will be at blocking UV light.

Method & Materials

You will work in groups of four to dissolve the sunscreens in ethanol, make a series of ethanol solutions with different concentrations, measure the absorbance of the different dilutions, and plot the absorbance of the sunscreen vs. concentration to calculate the extinction coefficient.
You will need a 50.00 mL volumetric flask, a 50 mL beaker, a 250 mL beaker, a 1.00 mL graduated pipet, a digital balance, a HP 8453 UV-Visible Spectrophotometer, 95% ethanol, and a sunscreen product.

Results

The results of this experiment show that the higher the SPF rating, the more effective the sunscreen is at blocking UV light. This is an important finding, as it helps us understand how to better protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Why do this project?

This science project is interesting and unique because it allows us to measure the effectiveness of sunscreen in a quantitative way.

Also Consider

Experiment variations to consider include testing different types of sunscreen, such as mineral-based or chemical-based, or testing different SPF ratings.

Full project details

You can find additional information and details for this science fair project here. Have fun exploring!
Share this Science Project:

Related Science Fair Project Ideas

Sweaty Shoes and Bacteria
Have you ever noticed a strong smell when someone takes off their shoes? Find out why and how to reduce it in this science project!
Hard
Sunscreen Soap and UV Radiation
Does the concentration of Octyl salicylate in soap mixtures affect the amount of UV radiation blocked? Find out in this science project!
Hard
Testing Sunscreen Protection
Let's find out if sunscreen can protect bacteria from UV light!
Hard
Share this Science Project: