In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Ekta sits down with Seth Nelson, co-founder of SOL LABS®, to discuss how surviving melanoma at age 27 became the catalyst for rethinking everything we know about sunscreen. What began as a personal health crisis evolved into a mission to make sun protection safer, smarter, and more enjoyable to use daily.

Seth shares how traditional sunscreens—greasy, irritating, and often overlooked—failed to meet the needs of real people. SOL LABS® set out to change that with mineral-only formulas that feel like high-end skincare and deliver clinical-grade performance. From South Korean R&D labs to the integration of astaxanthin (an antioxidant powerhouse discovered through AI research), every detail reflects a skincare-first approach to SPF.

Seth and co-founder Jenny also talk branding—creating a unisex, design-forward identity with their “anti-ordinary” sunscreen ethos. The line is rooted in clean, nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica, with zero chemical filters. And with 31 new products on the horizon, including makeup-compatible formulas, SOL LABS® is on a mission to make SPF a part of everyone’s daily ritual.

Tune in for a conversation that’s as much about purpose as it is about product. Whether you're passionate about skincare, sun protection, or building brands that matter, this episode offers a refreshing look at innovation grounded in personal experience—and designed for impact.

CHAPTERS:

(0:00) – Introduction to Seth Nelson and Sol Labs

(1:33) – Seth's Journey with Melanoma and Its Impact

(4:43) – The Moment Seth Decided to Create Sol Labs

(6:11) – Disconnect Between Consumers and Sun Protection

(9:01) – Branding and Consumer Appeal for Sol Labs

(13:48) – The R&D Process in South Korea and Finding the Right Partner

(16:53) – The Game-Changing Role of Astaxanthin in Sun Protection

(20:11) – Why Sol Labs Chose Mineral Sunscreens Over Chemical

(23:02) – The Importance of Sunscreen Feel and Daily Use

(27:06) – Sol Labs' Advocacy and Partnership with the Melanoma Research Alliance

To learn more about SOL LABS®, visit their website and social media.

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