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Review
. 2021 Nov;22(6):819-828.
doi: 10.1007/s40257-021-00632-5. Epub 2021 Aug 13.

Sunscreens and Photoaging: A Review of Current Literature

Linna L Guan  1 , Henry W Lim  1 , Tasneem F Mohammad  2
Affiliations
Review

Sunscreens and Photoaging: A Review of Current Literature

Linna L Guan et al. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021 Nov.

Abstract

Sunscreens have been on the market for many decades as a means of protection against ultraviolet-induced erythema. Over the years, evidence has also shown their efficacy in the prevention of photoaging, dyspigmentation, DNA damage, and photocarcinogenesis. In the USA, most broad-spectrum sunscreens provide protection against ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation and short-wavelength ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. Evidence suggests that visible light and infrared light may play a role in photoaging and should be considered when choosing a sunscreen. Currently, there is a paucity of US FDA-approved filters that provide protection against long UVA (> 370 nm) and none against visible light. Additionally, various sunscreen additives such as antioxidants and photolyases have also been reported to protect against and possibly reverse signs of photoaging. This literature review evaluates the utility of sunscreen in protecting against photoaging and further explores the requirements for an ideal sunscreen.

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Conflict of interest statement

LG has no conflicts of interest that are directly relevant to the content of this article. HWL has served as coinvestigator for studies sponsored by Incyte, L'Oreal, Pfizer, and PCOI; as consultant for Pierre Fabre, ISDIN, Ferndale, La Roche-Posay, and Beiersdorf; and as a speaker on general educational sessions for La Roche-Posay and Cantabria Labs. TFM has served as subinvestigator for Allergan and Ferndale Laboratories.

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