Sunscreens: topical and systemic approaches for protection of human skin against harmful effects of solar radiation

Journal Article · Wed Sep 01 00:00:00 EDT 1982 · J. Am. Acad. Dermatol.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(82)70117-3· OSTI ID:6560947

Pathak, M A

This review deals with topical and systemic approaches for protection of human skin against the harmful effects of solar radiation. Two concerns about the deleterious effects of sun exposure involve: (1) acute effects (e.g., sunburn and drug-induced phototoxicity) and (2) potential long-term risks of repeated sun exposures leading to development of solar elastosis, keratoses, induction of both nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer, and alteration of immune responses and functions. Action spectra of normal and abnormal reactions of human skin to acute and chronic effects of solar radiation are presented with a view to helping the physician prescribe the appropriate sunscreens. Factors that influence acute effects of sunburn are reviewed. Various artificial methods effective in minimizing or preventing harmful effects of solar radiation, both in normal individuals and in patients with photosensitivity-related problems, are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the commercially available chemical sunscreens and their properties. Sun protection factor (SPF) values of several brand-name formulations determined with a solar simulator under indoor conditions (laboratory) and with solar radiation under natural, field conditions are presented. Factors responsible for variations of SPF values observed under indoor and outdoor conditions are reviewed. Systemic photoprotective agents and their limitations are outlined. The photobiology of melanin pigmentation (the tanning reaction) is briefly discussed, with emphasis on the dangers of using quick-tanning lotions for stimulation of the tanning reaction.

• Research Organization: Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts
• OSTI ID: 6560947
• Journal Information: J. Am. Acad. Dermatol.; (United States), Vol. 7:3
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
DRUGS
RADIOSENSITIVITY EFFECTS
SKIN
BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
RADIATION PROTECTION
PATIENTS
SOLAR RADIATION
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BODY
ORGANS
RADIATION EFFECTS
RADIATIONS
STELLAR RADIATION
560152* - Radiation Effects on Animals- Animals