Effects of topical l-selenomethionine with topical and oral vitamin E on pigmentation and skin cancer induced by ultraviolet irradiation in Skh:2 hairless mice

Abstract

Background The antioxidants selenium and vitamin E can be effective in reducing acute and chronic ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin damage. Objective This study investigated whether topical l-selenomethionine with topical RRR-α-tocopherol (Eol) or oral RRR-α-tocopheryl acetate (Eac) can reduce the incidence of UV-induced skin damage more than treatment with each alone. Methods Skh:2 hairless pigmented mice were treated with lotion vehicle, l-selenomethionine lotion, Eol lotion, oral Eac, l-selenomethionine plus Eol lotion, or l-selenomethionine lotion plus oral Eac and exposed to UVB. Skin pigmentation was scored, and the number of skin tumors per animal was counted weekly. Results Mice treated with selenium and vitamin E had significantly less acute and chronic UV-induced skin damage. Conclusion Topical l-selenomethionine alone and combined with vitamin E gave the best protection against UV-induced blistering and pigmentation. In protecting against skin cancer, topical Eol and topical l-selenomethionine plus oral Eac were best. Significant synergy of l-selenomethionine with vitamin E was not observed.