When you live under our strong Kiwi sun, you tend to think about your sunscreen a little differently.
It’s not just something you throw in your beach bag every so often. It’s something you rely on every single day to protect, prevent damage, and support long-term skin health.
At Heliocare, we’ve always understood that. Our groundbreaking Fernblock® technology changed the world of sun protection, using powerful plant-based extracts from the Polypodium leucotomos fern to help shield and support your skin from the inside out.
But we always knew we could do even more.
Introducing ASPA-Fernblock® — the next generation of our sun protection technology, and a major step forward for daily skin health.
What is Aspa-Fernblock®?
Aspa-Fernblock® was developed to give your skin even more support where it matters most.
It combines our trusted Polypodium leucotomos extract with Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), a plant known for its powerful antioxidant and calming benefits.
Together, they create a new kind of protection. One that not only defends your skin, but also helps it stay stronger, recover faster, and work better under everyday sun exposure.
The Hidden Gaps in Traditional Sunscreens
Here in Aotearoa, we experience some of the world’s highest UV levels. Even just sitting by a window or going for a walk can expose your skin to significant sun stress.
Most sunscreens are designed to block UVB, aka the rays that cause sunburn. But that’s only part of the picture.
Sunlight also brings:
● UVA, which penetrates deeper and accelerates ageing
● Visible light and infrared-A, which contribute to pigmentation and inflammation
● Oxidative stress, which gradually weakens your skin’s resilience
And here’s something most people don’t expect:
Too much UV can interfere with how your skin uses vitamin D. It does this by damaging the receptors your skin needs to process it properly.
These can be the blind spots in everyday sun protection. And they’re exactly what ASPA-Fernblock® was developed to address.
How ASPA-Fernblock® Works
Unlike traditional sunscreens that may act only as a barrier, Aspa-Fernblock® is bioactive. It works with your skin, helping it stay healthy, functional, and better equipped to handle sun exposure.
Here’s how:
1. Supports Vitamin D Function
UV light helps your body produce vitamin D, but too much can damage the receptors (called VDRs) that allow your skin to use it.
Aspa-Fernblock® helps preserve these receptors. That means your skin can stay protected, while still maintaining the processes linked to vitamin D, like repair, collagen production, and immune support.
A 2025 study presented at CILAD showed Aspa-Fernblock®’s ability to support VDR activity under oxidative stress — a key factor in long-term skin health.
2. Supports DNA Repair
UV damage can go deeper than surface irritation. It can affect your skin’s DNA and how well it functions over time.
Aspa-Fernblock® helps support the skin’s natural repair processes, reducing the long-term effects of sun damage and helping maintain skin structure and strength.
3. Neutralises Oxidative Stress
The Rooibos extract in Aspa-Fernblock® is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, two powerful types of antioxidants.
This helps:
● Reduce free radical damage
● Calm inflammation and redness
● Support clearer, more balanced skin
When combined with Fernblock®, it creates a strong internal support system that works alongside your daily sunscreen needs.
For more on how this technology was developed and what makes it different, visit our Science page.
Is ASPA-Fernblock® Right for You?
This technology is backed by years of research from Cantabria Labs, a global leader in dermatological science.
Like all Heliocare products, it’s created for real life and real skin. So ASPA-Fernblock® is for anyone who wants clear, scientifically-backed support for their skin health over time.
You’ll especially benefit if you:
● Want a lightweight sunscreen that’s easy to wear every day
● Struggle with pigmentation, sensitivity, or early signs of ageing
● Spend a lot of time outdoors and want extra protection
● Prefer skincare that strengthens and repairs, not just shields
● Would like to support healthy vitamin D function while staying protected
Where You’ll See Aspa-Fernblock® First in New Zealand
You’ll first find ASPA-Fernblock® in one of our most-loved products: Heliocare 360° Sensation.
It’s the same lightweight, breathable formula people already love — now upgraded with even more benefits.
What’s stayed the same:
● Oil-free, invisible finish on all skin tones
● Won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive eyes
● Water- and sweat-resistant
● Sits beautifully under makeup
What’s new:
● Advanced support for vitamin D receptors (the OptiD Effect)
● Fewer chemical filters with longer-lasting SPF 50+ protection
● Protection against four types of radiation: UVB, UVA, visible light, and infrared-A
● Stronger antioxidant power and support for skin repair
Welcome to a New Era of Sun Protection
ASPA-Fernblock® marks a new chapter in how we care for our skin. It goes beyond traditional sun protection to support your skin’s natural defences, help it repair daily damage, and even preserve its ability to benefit from vitamin D.
And Heliocare 360° Sensation is just the beginning. Over 2025 and 2026, more Heliocare sunscreens and oral capsules will be upgraded with ASPA-Fernblock® technology — giving you even more ways to protect and support your skin, every single day.
We’re proud to bring this science to Aotearoa, and can’t wait for you to experience the difference.
Have questions? Want to know more? Get in touch with us any time, as we’re always here to help.
Blog authored by Jennifer Johnson
