Queensland corals lead to super sunscreen

Scientists have developed a new super sunscreen that mimics the way Great Barrier Reef corals protect themselves from UV light.

CSIRO scientists have spent the past two years harnessing the way the reefs' corals have survived Queensland's harsh sun for million of years in shallow waters.

They have discovered what they call new UV filters that are resistant to UVA and UVB rays and have added these coral properties in a cream emulsion.

CSIRO scientist Dr Mark York says a safe and effective sunscreen for human use has been developed.

"The filters are clear in colour, virtually odourless and very stable, which makes them easy to be incorporated into any emulsion," he said.

The sunscreen is expected to be on the global market within five years.

The research builds on work by scientists at the Australian Institute of Marine Science who were the first to discover the natural sun screening ability of the reef's corals.