Moving between science, business, and consumer strategy exposed a contradiction she could no longer ignore: one of the most important daily protection products in the world had fallen behind both culturally and scientifically. Innovation in sunscreen had become repetitive; formulations often failed to address the realities of melanin-rich skin, and the category itself felt clinical, outdated, and disconnected from the people expected to wear it every day.

Sunfreaks was created as a response to that gap.

Combining biotech-driven formulation, advanced UV and blue light protection technologies, DNA repair enzymes, and inclusive tinted formulations engineered with melanin-rich skin as a starting point, Dr. Gätjens-Sanchez is building a new generation of sunscreen designed for modern life under the sun.

Her ambition is not simply to create another suncare brand, but to redefine sunscreen through the lens of biotech, molecular skin science, cultural relevance, and bold identity.

Fascinated by cancer prevention and the molecular pathways involved in cancer onset, her PhD and research years in molecular oncology focused on understanding the cellular damage mechanisms that begin long before disease becomes visible. After years in oncology research, she later transitioned into strategy consulting, advising companies across the life sciences, pharma and healthcare sectors on innovation, market strategy, and commercialisation across international markets.