A recent study published in "Science Advances" reveals that around 41,000 years ago, during a period known as the Laschamps excursion when Earth's magnetic field weakened significantly, Homo sapiens employed innovative survival strategies to protect themselves from increased solar radiation, including the caveman version of sunscreen.
Ochre, a natural clay pigment with sun-protective properties, was used as a form of prehistoric sunscreen. The increased solar radiation also led to the creation of tailored clothing for additional protection, and seeking shelter in caves. These adaptations may have provided Homo sapiens with a critical advantage over Neanderthals, who lacked similar protective measures and became extinct around the same time.
Source: Daily Star