Photoprotection for all: Current gaps and opportunities

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2021.12.023Get rights and content

The effects of solar radiation on human skin differ based on the skin phototype, presence or absence of photodermatoses, biologic capacity to repair DNA damage, wavelength, intensity of sun exposure, geographic latitude, and other factors, underscoring the need for a more tailored approach to photoprotection. To date, the focus of photoprotection guidelines has been to prevent sunburn and DNA damage induced by UV radiation, both UVB and UVA; however, several recent studies have shown that visible light also generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that can contribute to skin damage and pigmentation on the skin, particularly in people with skin of color. Therefore, individuals with dark skin, while naturally better protected against UVB radiation by virtue of the high eumelanin content in melanocytes, may need additional protection from visible light-induced skin damage. The current options for photoprotection products need to expand, and potential strategies against visible light include the addition of iron oxide, titanium dioxide, and biologically relevant antioxidants to sunscreen formulations as well as supplementation with orally active antioxidants.

Key words

photoprotection
skin of color
sunscreen
ultraviolet radiation
visible light

Abbreviations used

CPD
cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer
FDA
US Food and Drug Administration
FST
Fitzpatrick skin type
GA
glycyrrhetinic acid
GRASE
generally regarded as safe and effective
IL
interleukin
MMP
matrix metalloproteinase
ROS
reactive oxygen species
SPF
sun protection factor
TiO2
titanium dioxide
VL
visible light
ZnO
zinc oxide

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This article is published as part of a supplement sponsored by Beiersdorf, Inc.

Funding sources: Supported by Beiersdorf, Inc.

IRB approval status: Not applicable.

Reprints not available from the authors.

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