Preserving the marine ecosystem by effectively protecting the skin
If it's necessary to protect yourself from the sun's rays, it's even more so when sailing. Hence the importance of using a good sunscreen. However, in recent years, studies have revealed the impact of these creams on the marine ecosystem. Every year, over 25,000 tonnes of creams pollute the seas and oceans, and are responsible for the destruction of coral reefs. Based on this observation, French Kiss Suncare was born. The project began in 2016, initiated by ocean lovers and regatta sailors.
It is the fruit of research and development by Nice-based SO.F.I.A Cosmétiques. This SPF 50+ sun cream is adapted to different skin types, providing protection against UVB and UVA rays, but also limiting the impact on marine ecosystems. While many creams claim to be "Ocean Friendly", French Kiss Suncare has proved it. Three years of studies were carried out according to a "Stress response, regeneration and longevity" test conducted by the Institut de Recherche sur le Cancer et le Vieillissement de Nice (IRCAN) of the Université de Nice Côte d'Azur. While the majority of sunscreens destroy 80% of corals, this vegan sunscreen, certified organic by the Ecocert label, has an impact of just 0.3%.
It uses new-generation filters that are non-irritating and non-allergenic, and has been awarded the Océan Friendly and Skin Safety labels. Water-resistant, light and non-greasy, it soothes and moisturizes the skin of adults and children alike, thanks to the presence of aloe vera. Rated 93/100 on the Yuka application.
Other products are already being developed to enrich the range: lip stick, SPF 30 sun cream...
As for its name, its creators chose it as a tribute to the famous America's Cup sailboat.
A renowned sailboat ambassador
After more than 10 years out of the water, French Kiss returned to the sea in 2020. Two partners, both sailing enthusiasts and regatta sailors, chose this iconic yacht to carry the colors of their sunscreen to the world of yachting and cruising. Since her purchase, she has taken part in numerous classic regattas.
The story of this 19.20 m 12m JI began in 1987. It was ordered and built for the America's Cup, and entrusted to the French challenger whose skipper was none other than Marc Pajot. This Briand design was built near La Roche-sur-Yon, in the Vendée region, in a hangar kept secret by the Alubat shipyard.
In the semi-finals of the 1987 Louis Vuitton Cup, the French team managed to reach the semi-finals. Never before or since has a French syndicate managed to finish so high on a podium. Very comfortable in strong winds, it unfortunately failed in the semi-final due to light wind conditions. It will forever be remembered as the boat with the best French result in this 13-challenger cup. This regatta will also mark the last Cup for the 12m JI boats, which have been competing in the America's Cup since 1958.
