Recent developments in the understanding of photodamage are leading dermatology clinicians to modify their approaches to photoprotection. Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with the ODAC Dermatology Conference, interviewed Dr. Amy McMichael, professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Watch as Dr. McMichael shares which patients will benefit the most from a sun protection strategy that addresses visible light. Learn why Dr. McMichael believes it’s time to revisit non-sunscreen methods of photoprotection. Plus hear why she recommends dermatology clinicians take a specialized photoprotection approach with their patients.
Further Reading
If you want to read more about photodamage and photoprotection, check out the following articles published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology:
ABSTRACT
Background: Iron oxides, antioxidants, and pigmentary titanium dioxide are sunscreen additive ingredients that enhance visible light protection, reduce associated hyperpigmentation, and protect against certain photosensitive dermatoses There are currently no standardized recommendations for visible light protection with these additive ingredients, leading to varied clinical recommendations.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate dermatology practitioners’ counseling practices for visible light protection.
Methods: An electronic survey was distributed to dermatology practitioners. Survey responses were compiled for analysis, and statistical significance was calculated using a standard 95% confidence interval.
Results: 91.68% of 974 respondents actively counsel patients about visible light protection, primarily emphasizing its role in exacerbating pigmentation in patients with melanin-rich skin (70.92%). Of these, 10.34% recommended sunscreens with visible light protective additive ingredients specifically for patients with melanin-rich skin, and 48.89% recommended them for managing melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Iron oxide additive ingredients were most frequently recommended (90.92%), followed by antioxidants (69.08%) and pigmentary TiO2, (58.85%). 8.32% of respondents reported not counseling patients about visible light protection, with major reasons encompassing the lack of standardized guidelines (50.62%), challenges in recommending suitably tinted sunscreens (27.16%), limited availability of sunscreen options (23.46%), and insufficient supportive data (18.52%).
Conclusion: There is a need for increased education and awareness regarding visible light protection strategies and the identification of patients who may benefit the most from a targeted photoprotective strategy. Establishing standardized guidelines and broadening the availability of sunscreen options conferring visible light protection may help address these gaps.
Sunscreens: Mechanisms and Safety in Depth
ABSTRACT
Sunscreens play an essential role in preventing skin cancer and photoaging. Nevertheless, concerns about their systemic absorption and environmental impacts persist. In this extensive literature review, we discuss the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety concerns related to sunscreen use, aiming to clarify current understandings and dispel prevalent myths. Despite ongoing debates regarding certain ingredients, the scientific consensus supports the use of sunscreens as a critical defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Continued research is necessary to address safety concerns and to refine sunscreen formulations for optimal protection and minimal adverse effects.
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