Maca Barrera's Melwear - Harnessing the Power of Bacterial Melanin
to shield our bodies from harmful UV radiation
In recent decades, Earth has experienced a notable shift in solar UV radiation. Particularly in the southern hemisphere, significant effects have been observed due to ozone depletion driven by climate change. This escalating intensity of UV radiation increases the risks of sunburn, photoaging, and cancer, highlighting the critical need for effective photoprotection. Furthermore, recognizing the harmful impacts of conventional sunscreens on marine ecosystems amplifies this urgency. Laden with chemicals, these traditional sunscreens contribute to coral bleaching and the accumulation of toxic substances in our oceans.
In response to these challenges, biodesigner and researcher Maca Barrera leads a speculative yet promising project at the nexus of design and science. Her initiative, Melwear, aims to develop a biomimicry-based solution to combat the adverse effects of UV radiation. Barrera's innovative and conscientious approach represents a significant shift in how we view UV protection. Utilizing bacterial melanin, a biodegradable and abundant pigment known for its strong UV absorbance and antioxidant properties, Melwear introduces a revolutionary 'second skin.' This innovative membrane, infused with bacterial melanin, activates and darkens progressively in response to UV exposure, offering dynamic and tailored protection adapted to specific environmental conditions. This feature significantly mitigates the potential for DNA damage and oxidative stress in skin cells, demonstrating nature's efficiency in countering sun damage.
The essence of Melwear lies in its integration of interactive wearable technology. This advanced system dynamically interacts with the environment, delivering personalized sun protection. It allows for the customization of bacterial melanin concentrations, catering to diverse skin types and geographical needs, with pigmentation that varies according to UV exposure levels.
In navigating the complexities of UV protection in an era dominated by climate crisis concerns, Melwear contributes to the conversation by highlighting the need for solutions that balance human health and ecological sustainability. Barrera's work, while pioneering, serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey in scientific innovation—a journey marked by continual learning, adaptation, and evaluation to safeguard the well-being of both people and the planet.
Maca Barrera's project was a highlight in the 'Revolutions' exhibition, which featured 16 innovative projects from five cohorts of Masters in Biodesign at Central Saint Martins. Since its inception in 2019, the MA Biodesign programme had continually evolved, incorporating biological systems, data, and interconnectedness into its design processes to revalue, remediate, regenerate, and revolutionise the field.
The works exhibited, including Barrera's, showcased a harmonious blend of biological systems, their interconnectedness, adaptability, and circularity, all employed in diverse ways to address complex environmental and social challenges. Biodesign, as an emergent field, has been rapidly advancing. Each designer's unique creative process was informed and enriched by the scientific knowledge and inventive efforts of those who came before.
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