Abstract

Background: The efficacy of sunscreen is evaluated by SPF values, which are quantitatively determined in laboratories on the backs of human subjects according to a standardized procedure. However, SPF cannot be directly translated to sunburn protection under real-life situations because actual efficacy depends on various factors related to human behaviors and environmental conditions. This study clinically evaluated the efficacy of two sunscreen sprays (SPF 30 and SPF 70) under natural sunlight exposure on healthy subjects at the beach. Methods: Twenty subjects were divided into two cells for the two sunscreen sprays (SPF 70 and SPF 30) in a single-center, actual usage test. The primary endpoint of the study was sunburn protection on the dorsal arms and the secondary endpoint was protection on the face and neck. Subjects stayed at the beach for 4 h after application of the sunscreens with normal beach activities. Subjects’ behavior at the beach, the amounts of sunscreen applied and reapplied, and environmental conditions were all recorded. Results: There was no significant sunburn for a majority of the subjects in either cell. However, neither sunscreen completely blocked the sunburn, especially the face/neck area. We found that the SPF 70 sunscreen was more effective than the SPF 30 sunscreen. Conclusion: Modern sunscreen sprays, applied liberally, are effective in providing sunburn protection for the body in a beach setting.

Highlights

  • Solar ultraviolet radiation is divided into UVB (295–320 nm) and UVA (320–400 nm)

  • The efficacy of sunscreen is primarily indicated by its sun protection factor (SPF), which is a ratio of solar energies required to produce erythema on protected skin relative to unprotected skin [1]

  • While a precise SPF value can be determined in a laboratory setting, it is only useful as a parameter for relative comparisons for consumers

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Summary

Introduction

Solar ultraviolet radiation is divided into UVB (295–320 nm) and UVA (320–400 nm). . People wearing sunscreen may participate in different activities during outdoor exposure They may apply and reapply differently, making the translation of the SPF value even more challenging in real life. Many people apply sunscreens for outdoor recreational activities, but there are not many clinical studies designed to evaluate the effectiveness of modern sunscreens under real environmental conditions and actual use. We believe it is important for patients and health care professionals. Cosmetics 2017, 4, 10 to understand how modern sunscreens perform in real life This information can complement the label SPF and assist consumers and health care professionals in making informed, evidence-based decisions when choosing an appropriate sunscreen product. There are not many studies documenting the actual usage behavior of sprays and clinical testing of modern sunscreen sprays on target populations at the beach is scarce

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