Epicutis Launches Lipid Shield SPF 30

Epicutis has launched a mineral-based sunscreen, Lipid Shield SPF 30. In a press release, the company stated the Lipid Shield SPF 30 is the only sunscreen to pair non-nano zinc oxide with a proprietary molecule known as disodium tetramethylhexadecenyl succinoyl cysteine (TSC).

TSC, a lipid-active small molecule, has previously been shown to support skin barrier repair and reduce visible redness. 

“Most sunscreens stop at protection—Lipid Shield goes further,” said Maxwell Stock, founder and CEO of Epicutis. "We developed this product for people who demand more from their SPF: clean, sport-ready, and clinically smart. It’s the only mineral sunscreen that not only shields skin from UVA and UVB rays but also helps counteract UV-induced damage at the molecular level, thanks to our patented TSC.”

In a press release, the company stated the Lipid Shield SPF 30 is the first sunscreen formulation to incorporate TSC, which is present at 0.25%—half the concentration found in the brand’s existing Lipid Serum product. TSC may help protect collagen integrity and support skin recovery under UV-induced stress, even when reapplication is delayed.

The product is designed to provide physical broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and is formulated without chemical filters. It is water-resistant and described as sweat-stable, making it suitable for individuals engaged in outdoor or athletic activities. The formulation aims to minimize common drawbacks of zinc oxide-based sunscreens—such as residue or comedogenicity—by offering a lightweight texture and a tintless application that reportedly blends across Fitzpatrick skin types I through V.

In addition to zinc oxide and TSC, the formulation includes botanical ingredients such as licorice root extract, bisabolol (a chamomile derivative), and aloe vera leaf to help soothe symptoms associated with post-sun exposure. 

Lipid Shield SPF 30 is currently available through Epicutis-affiliated professional channels.