Photostability of commercial sunscreens upon sun exposure and irradiation by ultraviolet lamps
2007

Study of Sunscreen Photostability Under UV Exposure

Sample size: 7 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gonzalez Helena, Tarras-Wahlberg Nils, Strömdahl Birgitta, Juzeniene Asta, Moan Johan, Larkö Olle, Rosén Arne, Wennberg Ann-Marie

Primary Institution: Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Hypothesis

The study aims to investigate the photostability of seven commercial sunscreen products after natural and artificial UV exposure.

Conclusion

The study found that several sunscreens are photounstable in the UVA range after exposure to both natural and artificial UV radiation.

Supporting Evidence

  • Three sunscreens were unstable after 90 minutes of natural UV exposure.
  • Three sunscreens were photostable after 120 minutes of natural UV exposure.
  • Five sunscreens were stable in the UVB region.

Takeaway

Some sunscreens break down when exposed to sunlight, which means they might not protect your skin as well as you think.

Methodology

Seven commercial sunscreens were tested using absorption spectroscopy to measure their stability under UV exposure.

Limitations

The study only included seven sunscreen products, which may not represent all available products on the market.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-5945-7-1

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