Sunscreen Products Research Articles

Analysis Based on Three Aspects of Sunscreen

With the increasing awareness of health, people’s awareness of UV protection is also gradually improving. Sunscreen with UV protection has become an indispensable part of people’s daily lives. The market size of China’s sunscreen market will reach 74.2 billion yuan in 2023, and it is expected to grow to 95.8 billion yuan by 2026. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the safety, effectiveness, and environmental friendliness of sunscreen from three perspectives, and discuss the reliability of SPF human testing, improving the stability of sunscreen use, and the cost of new environmentally friendly materials. Through analysis, it is found that there are still shortcomings in the current SPF testing methods, production costs of environmentally friendly materials, and promotion of correct application methods for sunscreen. Subsequently, appropriate adjustments were made to the testing methods and material formulations of sunscreen, as well as recommendations for the selection and correct application of sunscreen. However, the long-term safety of nanomaterials still needs to be further explored. Due to the rapid development of research technology for sunscreen products and the diversification of market products, it is necessary to review the safety, effectiveness, and environmental friendliness of current sunscreen products.

Personal care products use during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: Environmental and public health impact assessment using wastewater-based epidemiology

The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had profound consequences on people's wellbeing, societies and economy worldwide. This manuscript discusses public exposure to chemicals of concern in personal care products (parabens and benzophenones) during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These were monitored for two years in four catchments (two cities and two towns) in South West England accounting for >1 million people. Results showed slightly higher usage of personal care products in small towns than big cities. Major changes in usage of parabens (p values < 0.05) were observed during national lockdowns (NLs). This is likely due to increased awareness towards personal hygiene. In contrast, benzophenones showed seasonal trends; there were higher correlations with sunshine prevalence and temperature rather than NLs reflecting their usage in sunscreen products. Estimation of per capita intake of parabens and benzophenones using WBE revealed lower intake than the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) established by the EFSA; however, the metabolism factor used was considered putative due to the lack of pharmacokinetic studies. Prediction of environmental exposure revealed peaks of higher impact during NLs and first year of pandemic, nevertheless the overall predicted values were below Predicted No Effect Concentrations (PNEC).

How Well Do Employees Know Their Health Savings Accounts? The Need for Improved HSA Communication and Literacy

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) have been around for two decades, with record funds accruing in accounts year-after-year. Despite this growth, little is known regarding how well consumers know what they can spend their HSA funds on to maximize their accounts’ tax advantages. A survey of HSA savers at a large Midwest organization ( n = 732) found that about 1-in-4 employees (29.1%) were unsure or did not know their HSA contributions were not federally taxed. Additionally, employees knew that fewer than half of items asked about (M = 4.71) on a 10-item HSA-eligible quiz could be purchased with HSA funds. Employees had the least awareness that hand sanitizer (22.5%), sunscreen (27.2%), and menstrual care products (33.1%) could be purchased with HSA funds. Knowledge or perceptions did not differ based on employee education level, indicating that HSAs are likely a complicated topic for anyone to fully comprehend. These findings showcase a need to develop more effective communication to help employees better understand the unique benefits HSAs can provide. Additional recommendations for employers are provided.

Photoprotective Effects of Yeast Pulcherrimin.

Sunscreen products can protect the skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation, including reddening, aging, and cancer. The aim of this research was to evaluate the photoprotective effects of yeast pulcherrimin, an iron-chelating dipeptide. We first investigated the cytotoxicity of pulcherrimin produced by Metschnikowia pulcherrima yeast on the human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line, using the PrestoBlue assay. We assessed the ability of pulcherrimin to induce DNA repair after the exposure of HaCaT cells to oxidative stress. We also evaluated its protective activity against UVC radiation. The sun protective factor (SPF) was calculated using the Mansur equation. The UVA/UVB ratio values for pure pulcherrimin were evaluated using the Boots Star Rating system. The critical wavelength was determined by calculating the integrated optical density curve area. Based on the results, pulcherrimin shows strong cytoprotective effects through antioxidant and photoprotective activities on the HaCaT cell line. The calculated SPFs were 20 and 15 at pH = 7 and pH = 10, respectively. The critical wavelength above 370 nm and the UVA/UVB ratio R > 1 suggest that yeast pulcherrimin-a cyclic dipeptide containing iron-may be considered a promising photoprotective agent.

Structural, morphological and optical properties of the La2W2O9/Fe2O3 composite for UV-shielding applications

Currently, research has been conducted on the individual oxides La2W2O9 and Fe2O3 but not on its composite form. Using a solid-state reaction technique, a La2W2O9/Fe2O3 composite was created. A particular calcination cycle was followed by mixing the raw precursors. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the morphological microstructure, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to examine the structural characteristics. The thermal and gravimetric properties were examined via differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The optical characteristics were investigated via UV–visible spectroscopy, which investigated included the transmittance, absorbance, absorption coefficient, band gap (Eg), penetration depth (β), Urbach energy (EU), refractive index, optical conductivity, and dielectric function. These findings indicate that the optical properties improved after the addition of Fe2O3 compared with those of pure La2W2O9. The La2W2O9/Fe2O3 composite holds promise as a prospective material for use in the fields of sunscreen products, UV shielding or solar filtration.

Sun Protection as a Strategy for Managing Heat Stress in Avocado Trees.

The increasing incidence of heat stress due to global climate change poses a significant challenge to avocado (Persea americana) cultivation, particularly in regions with intense solar radiation. This review evaluates sun protection strategies, focusing on the efficacy of different sunscreen products such as kaolin, titanium dioxide, and calcium oxide in mitigating thermal stress in avocado trees. The application of these materials was shown to reduce leaf and fruit surface temperatures, improve photosynthetic efficiency, and enhance fruit quality by preventing sunburn and dehydration. Despite these benefits, challenges remain, including the optimal timing and dosage of application, and the potential residue impacts on fruit marketability. The review emphasizes the need for ongoing research to develop more effective formulations and to integrate these sun protection strategies with other agronomic practices. The role of extension services in educating producers about the proper use of these technologies is also highlighted as crucial for the successful adoption of sun protection measures in avocado farming.

Exploring everyday racist symbolism in community recreation spaces: a critical race content analysis

ABSTRACT There has been a palpable shift in the public’s collective consciousness about the realities of racism in recent years. Community recreation organizations, like all other institutions, are not exempt from promoting racial inequity through taken for granted policies and practices. The purpose of this study was to explore some of the racist symbolism found within everyday artifacts at local community centres in a sub-urban area of Ontario, Canada. A Critical Race Content Analysis methodology was used to analyze bandages, promotional materials, and sunscreen. This study found that bandages in first aid supplies were exclusively for White skin tones, images in promotional materials featured mostly White people, and the sunscreen products stocked were not made for dark skinned folx. A discussion on the implications of each finding is provided followed by limitations and recommendations for research and practice.

The Potential of Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) Essential Oil as Sunscreen and Anti-Aging Agents: An In Vitro and In Silico Study

The earth thermal conditions increase exposure to sunlight, triggering skin damage. The skin has defense mechanisms but needs additional protection to prevent photoaging. Using sunscreen is an effort to reduce the harmful effects of sun exposure. Natural ingredients with antioxidant activity can be developed into sunscreen and antiaging products, including cloves. This study aims to assess the antioxidant, sun protection, and anti-aging properties of essential oils derived from clove leaves and buds. The antioxidant activity was assessed by the DPPH system and then formulated into 5 and 10 % clove leaves cream, as well as 5 and 10 % clove bud cream. The SPF values were assessed using a spectrophotometer and the Mansur formula. The antiaging potential was assessed using the in silico method with MMP-1 protein employing the Auto Dock Vina software, followed by analysis and visualization using BIOVIA Discovery Studio. The essential oils from clove leaves and buds have DPPH IC50 values of 23.09 and 30.31 ppm. The SPF values of clove leaves essential oil, 5 % leaves cream, and 10 % leaves cream are 38.61, 14.32, and 22.15. Meanwhile, the SPF values of clove bud essential oil, 5 % bud cream, and 10 % bud cream are 38.19, 9.32, and 18.16. The in silico test revealed that caryophyllene, eugenol, humulene, and phenol, 2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl), acetate) have strong interactions because they can interact with the active site of proteins using hydrogen, hydrophobic, and van der Waals bonds. The essential oils from clove leaves and buds exhibit very strong antioxidant activity and offer ultra-protection as a sunscreen. The cream formulations still exhibit sunscreen activity, albeit at a lower level compared to pure essential oil. Caryophyllene, eugenol, humulene, and phenol, 2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)-, acetate), have potential as antiaging agents, as indicated by their binding affinity and chemical bond interactions observed in the in silico test. HIGHLIGHTS Clove buds and leaves exhibit antioxidant properties. Essential oil from clove buds and leaves demonstrates a substantial Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The compounds contained in clove essential oil exhibit promise as prospective agents in anti-aging applications. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Overview on Nanomaterials for Nanocosmetics

One of the scientific areas with the highest growth right now is nanotechnology. The development of nanocosmetics through the use of nanoscale materials has become more popular in recent years. Due to distinct structures, chemical, physical, physiochemical, and functional properties - most of them are absent in their non-nanoscale forms - some nanomaterial types are extremely appealing for use in the cosmetics sector. Regardless of their kind, form, morphology, or content, nanomaterials have two primary purposes in cosmeceutical inventory [1]: nano-constructs as (UV) filters, and [2] nanostructures as biologically active components for topical applications and other treatments associated with cosmeceuticals, such as moisturizers, skincare, makeup, sunscreen, and hair care products. As Ultraviolet filters or Ultraviolet protectants, various types of nanoparticles, such as silver, gold, titanium, and zinc, have been employed in the former scenario to hinder or to Utilize UV radiation and shield the layer beneath the skin from damaging consequences. Nanoliposomes are the delivery systems used in the 2nd concept usage. Therefore, next-generation cosmeceutical solutions for blossoming beauty that offer enhanced skin hydration, bioavailability, agent stability, and regulated UV occlusion have been highlighted as potentially becoming nanomaterial-loaded nanocosmetics. In light of the criticisms mentioned earlier and the potentialities of nanomaterials, we first examined the benefits of using nanoliposomes and nanoparticles as UV filters and delivery systems. The work's second split discusses the safety and legal implications of nanoparticles employed in compositions. Concluding remarks and suggestions for further study round out the work and enable material scientists to securely utilize nanoparticles in large-scale commercial goods.

Thyroid, neurodevelopmental, and kidney toxicities of common organic UV filters in embryo-larval zebrafish (Danio rerio), and their potential links

Organic UV filters (OUVFs) have been commonly used in sunscreen and many consumer products. Following dermal application, these compounds can enter circulation and may cause systemic effects in humans. In the present study, we chose four OUVFs frequently detected in the environment, i.e., avobenzone (AVB), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), octocrylene (OC), and octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), and evaluated their thyroid, neurodevelopmental, and kidney toxicities. For this purpose, zebrafish embryos (<4 h post fertilization, hpf) were exposed to sublethal concentrations of AVB, BP-3, OC, or OMC until 120 hpf. Exposure to all OUVFs decreased thyroid hormone (TH) levels, probably by enhanced metabolism and excretion of THs (ugt1ab and/or sult1 st5) in the larval fish. Exposure to the OUVFs also induced hypoactivities and/or anxiety-like behaviors: Regulatory changes of mbp, gfap, c-fos, syn2a, sty1a, and stxbp1b genes, support the changes in normal neurobehavior of the larval fish. Moreover, the OUVFs exposure caused increased proteinuria in the fish, along with transcriptional changes of wt1, nephrin, podocin, and cdh17 genes, which could explain the observed reduction in kidney functions. Principal component analysis (PCA) implied the potential interplay of THs with neurogenesis, or podocyte differentiation of the larval fish. Toxicological consequences of altered TH homeostasis, neurobehavior, and kidney function at the early life stage warrant further investigations not only in humans but also in aquatic ecosystems.

Effect of Ozonation on Physicochemical Properties of Olive Oil Based Sunscreen Product

ABSTRACT Ozone serves as a potent oxidizing agent and a universal antiseptic, extensively employed in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics due to its ability to dissolve in water and decompose into oxygen. This study aimed to treat virgin olive oil (VOO) with the ozonation process prior to its incorporation into a sunscreen product, and to discover any new potentially useful properties by comparing it with a sunscreen containing non-ozonated olive oil. The comparison was based on physicochemical properties, physical appearance, and sun protection factor (SPF) value. VOO treated with 0.017 mole/L ozone was tested for various physicochemical properties such as color, viscosity, refractive index, acid value, iodine value, peroxide value, saponification value, and oxidative stability. The composition was analyzed using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The properties of ozonated olive oil (OOO) differed from VOO in terms of viscosity and flow behavior. An increase in shear rate significantly reduced the viscosity of OOO, while VOO maintained a constant viscosity and exhibited Newtonian flow behavior. When OOO was incorporated into sunscreen products, it enhanced the spreadability of the product on the skin, resulting in a significantly higher SPF value. The ability of a sunscreen to spread evenly on the skin and form a continuous thin film is crucial for effective protection against the sun’s rays. These findings highlight the potential of OOO in enhancing the photoprotection efficacy of sunscreen products by providing valuable data for its incorporation into formulations aiming to improve sun protection. Future research could focus on long-term stability and potential side effects of OOO in cosmetic formulations.

Deciphering mechanisms of UV filter (benzophenone-3)- and high temperature-induced adverse effects in the coral Acropora tenuis, using ecotoxicogenomics

Coral reefs are at risk of bleaching due to various environmental and anthropogenic stressors such as global warming and chemical pollutants. However, there is little understanding of stressor-specific mechanisms that cause coral bleaching. Therefore, conducting accurate ecotoxicological risk assessments and deciphering modes of action of potentially deleterious ultraviolet (UV) filters (sunscreen compounds) are crucial issues. In this study, we evaluated the toxicity and bleaching effect of benzophenone-3 (BP-3), which is widely used in sunscreen products, on the reef-building coral Acropora tenuis. Furthermore, to understand differences in UV filter- and temperature-induced adverse effects, a comparative ecotoxicogenomic approach using RNA-seq was integrated into a toxicity test to clarify differences in gene expression changes induced by BP-3 and heat stress (31 °C). The lethal concentration 50 % (LC50) was calculated as 3.9 mg/L, indicating that the aquatic environmental risk on corals posed by BP-3 was low based on the risk assessment in this study. Differentially expressed genes related to oxidative stress and extracellular matrix organization were involved in coral responses to both BP-3 and heat stress, but their patterns differed. Whereas immune and heat-shock responses were activated in response to heat stress, activation of a drug metabolism pathway and several signal transduction pathways were identified in BP-3 treatment groups. Our study enhances understanding of stress responses in corals induced by UV filters and thermal stress. Using potential gene markers identified in this study for eco-epidemiological surveys of stressed corals, we urgently need to develop effective countermeasures.

An overlooked risk for skin health: Less availability and higher cost of sunscreen for people with melanated skin

BackgroundSunscreen with a skin protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater is recommended to reduce the risk of skin cancer and improve skin health for all people regardless of skin tone. Traditional sunscreen that creates a white cast on the skin is incompatible with melanated skin. MethodsThe number of products on the shelf, SPF level, application, coloration, and cost were recorded at three beauty supply chain stores and three pharmacy, health, and wellness stores in or near Harlem in New York City in the Spring of 2023. The number of skin tones for tinted sunscreen was visually matched to the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes scale. ResultsA total of 385 sunscreen products were identified; 78.7 % were traditional white sunscreen, followed by sheer (15.3 %) and tinted (6.0 %) products. Beauty supply stores offered more tinted sunscreen options than did pharmacy, health, and wellness stores (n = 17,15.3 % vs. n = 6, 2.2 %, p < 0.001). Of the tinted sunscreen products, 19 brands offered only a single tone. Tinted sunscreen was significantly more expensive with an average cost of $24.59 [SD $14.71] per ounce vs. $6.85 [SD 8.66] for traditional, and $9.38 [SD 8.92] for sheer suncreen. ConclusionsSunscreen that is tinted or sheer and compatible with melanated skin is less available and more costly than traditional white sunscreen in beauty and pharmacy chain stores in NYC. Availability and affordability of sunscreen matching the spectrum of skin tones are essential for optimal sun protection and skin health.

The Influence of Marketing Mix on Repurchase Intention for Azarine Sunscreen Product in Denpasar City

The beauty industry in Indonesia has experienced rapid development in recent years with significant growth in the cosmetics sector. One of the important products in skin care is sunscreen, which protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Azarine, a local Indonesian brand, has succeeded in establishing its position in the market. This research aims to analyze the influence of the marketing mix on repurchase intention for Azarine sunscreen products in Denpasar City. This research uses quantitative methods with a survey approach to users of Azarine sunscreen products in Denpasar City. Data was collected through questionnaires distributed to 140 respondents. Data analysis was carried out using the multiple linear regression method to test the influence of product quality, price suitability, distribution channels and promotional effectiveness on repurchase intention. The results of the research show that product quality on repurchase intention obtained a significance value of 0.000, which shows that product quality has a positive and significant effect on repurchase intention. Price suitability for repurchase intention obtained a significance value of 0.000, which means price suitability has a positive and significant effect on repurchase intention. The distribution channel on repurchase intention obtained a significance value of 0.009, which means that the distribution channel has a positive and significant effect on repurchase intention. The effectiveness of promotions on repurchase intention obtained a significance value of 0.000, which means that promotion effectiveness has a positive and significant effect on repurchase intention. The research results show that the variables of product quality, price suitability, distribution channels, and promotional effectiveness have a positive and significant influence on the intention to repurchase Azarine sunscreen products. It is hoped that these findings can contribute to Azarine's management in formulating more effective marketing strategies to increase customer loyalty. This research also provides empirical contributions to academic literature in the field of marketing.

In Vitro Anti-Photoaging Properties of Phylanthus urinaria L. Herb Extract

The overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight is related to photoaging of the skin and high risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen material and antioxidants are commonly used to protect skin from harmful UV. However, the application of synthetic compounds in sunscreen products is regulated to a limited amount because it can produce photosensitizers, inducing adverse reactions in the skin, and also harmful to the environment. Ethanol extract of Phyllanthus urinaria L. herb possesses a strong antioxidant activity similar to ascorbic acid, which makes it potential to substitute the synthetic compound in sunscreen products. Therefore, this research was conducted on the 70% ethanol extract of P. urinaria herb to analyze its in vitro anti-photoaging properties, i.e., antioxidant, protein antiglycation and antiinflammation, also to determine the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and the quantitative composition of the metabolites. The extract exhibited a strong antioxidant activity IC50 of 3.01 mg/L, a higher moderate antiglycation activity IC50 of 216.67 mg/L, but low anti-inflammatory activity IC50 of 86.61mg/L. The presence of saponin, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and methyl linoleates is suggested to contribute to the anti-photoaging properties. According to the anti-inflammatory assay, the extract may not inhibit signaling pathways that follow cytokine expression but possibly inhibit those that precede cytokine expression due to its antioxidant activity. An SPF value of 5.95 at 50 mg/L meets the recommended range for the skin phototypes of Southeast Asian, dark-skinned Asian, and African people. These results indicate that P. urinaria extract has potential as an anti-photoaging material for sunscreen products.Keywords: antiglycation, antiinflammation, antioxidation, Phyllanthus urinaria L., SPF.

Reducing Oxidative Stress Levels and Inhibiting Aging by l-Cysteine-Derived Carbon Dots with Highly Efficient Broad-Spectrum UV Absorption.

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure causes damage to human skin and mucous membranes, resulting in oxidative stress, and can also lead to inflammation of human skin, skin aging, and even diseases such as squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma of the skin. The main means of protection against UV radiation is physical shielding and the use of sunscreen products. Carbon dots as a novel nanomaterial provide a new option for UV protection. In this article, we introduced sulfhydryl groups to synthesize l-cysteine-derived carbon dots (GLCDs) with UV resistance. GLCDs exhibit high-efficiency and excellent UV absorption, achieving 200-400 nm UV absorption (99% UVC, 97% UVB, and 86% UVA) at a low concentration of 0.5 mg/mL. Meanwhile, GLCDs can reduce apoptosis and UVB-induced oxidative damage, increase collagen type I gene expression, and inhibit skin aging in zebrafish. It also inhibits senescence caused by the senescence inducer 2,2'-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride and reduces oxidative damage. The above studies show that GLCDs possess efficient broad-spectrum UV absorption, antiphotoaging, and antiaging capabilities, which will have a broad application prospect in UV protection.

Contribution of Continued Dermal Exposure of PFAS-Containing Sunscreens to Internal Exposure: Extrapolation from In Vitro and In Vivo Tests to Physiologically Based Toxicokinetic Models.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widely present in sunscreen products as either active ingredients or impurities. They may penetrate the human skin barrier and then pose potential health risks. Herein, we aimed to develop a physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model capable of predicting the body loading of PFASs after repeated, long-term dermal application of commercial sunscreens. Ten laboratory-prepared sunscreens, generally falling into two categories of water-in-oil (W/O) and oil-in-water (O/W) sunscreens, were subject to in vitro percutaneous penetration test to assess the impacts of four sunscreen ingredients on PFAS penetration. According to the results, two sunscreen formulas representing W/O and O/W types that mostly enhanced PFAS dermal absorption were then selected for a subsequent 30 day in vivo exposure experiment in mice. PBTK models were successfully established based on the time-dependent PFAS concentrations in mouse tissues (R2 = 0.885-0.947) and validated through another 30 day repeated exposure experiment in mice using two commercially available sunscreens containing PFASs (R2 = 0.809-0.835). The PBTK model results suggest that applying sunscreen of the same amount on a larger skin area is more conducive to PFAS permeation, thus enhancing the exposure risk. This emphasizes the need for caution in practical sunscreen application scenarios, particularly during the summer months.

Exposure to biocides and their potential exposure sources among adults: A nationwide population-based study in South Korea

Biocides are present in personal care (including preservatives or antibacterials), pest control, and disinfectant products (including non-agricultural insecticides, fungicides, and disinfectants), and their long-term exposure may induce adverse health effects in humans. Therefore, in this study, we assessed the exposure levels and major exposure predictors of biocides among nationally representative Korean adults. The target group included adults (≥19 years) participating in the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) 2015–2020. We employed survey-weighted multiple regression analysis and conditional inference trees analysis to assess the associations between demographic characteristics, behavioral sources (including personal care product use, pesticide use, and dietary patterns), and urinary levels of phenol (triclosan [TCS]), parabens (methyl paraben [MP], ethyl paraben [EP], propyl paraben [PP], and butyl paraben [BP]), and the pyrethroid insecticide metabolite (3-phenoxybenzoic acid [3-PBA]). Urinary EP, BP, and 3-PBA levels were higher in South Korean adults compared with those in Western countries. Major exposure predictors for MP, EP, and PP included the use of personal care products such as sunscreen, makeup, and hair care products in KoNEHS 2018–2020. Major exposure predictors for TCS and BP were vegetable consumption, and those for 3-PBA were mosquitocide use during summer in KoNEHS 2018–2020. However, these predictors were not observed in KoNEHS 2015–2017. Collectively, our findings suggest that biocide exposure predictors vary according to changes in product use and diet habits of individuals. Therefore, developing strategies to mitigate biocide exposure based on the demographic and behavioral characteristics of the general population is imperative.

Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots with Photoactivation Properties for Ultraviolet Ray Detection.

Photoactivation is a phenomenon that could enhance the photoluminescence (PL) and photostability upon UV/vis light exposure, which is usually observed in CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs). However, the photoactivation phenomenon has been scarcely reported in fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs). Herein, the nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) were prepared through a facile solvothermal approach with naphthalenetracarboxylic dianhydride and serine as precursors. Upon simple UV light irradiation for 10 min, the fluorescence quantum yield (QY) of N-CQDs could increase up to 10-fold. Based on this phenomenon, the N-CQDs were explored as an ultraviolet (UV) light sensor to assess the intensity of ultraviolet radiation in sunlight and indirectly evaluate the UV-blocking efficiency of various sunscreen products. Thus, this contribution not only provided an insight into developing a low-cost UV detector but also opened a door for the development of carbon quantum dots with converse-photobleaching properties.

Reduced estrogenic risks of a sunscreen additive: Theoretical design and evaluation of functionally improved salicylates

Salicylic esters (SEs), the widely used ultraviolet (UV) absorbers in sunscreen products, have been found to have health risks such as skin sensitization and estrogenic effects. This study aims to design SE substitutes that maintain high UV absorbance while reducing estrogenicity. Using molecular docking and Gaussian09 software for initial assessments and further application of a combination of two-dimensional and three-dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationships (2D-QSAR and 3D-QSAR, respectively) models, we designed 73 substitutes. The best-performing molecules, ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS)−5 and EHS-15, significantly reduced estrogenicity (44.54 % and 17.60 %, respectively) and enhanced UV absorbance (249.56 % and 46.94 %, respectively). Through screening for human health risks, we found that EHS-5 and EHS-15 were free from skin sensitivity and eye irritation and exhibited reduced skin permeability compared with EHS. Furthermore, the photolysis and synthetic pathways of EHS-5 and EHS-15 were deduced, demonstrating their good photodegradability and potential synthesizability. In addition, we analyzed the mechanisms underlying the changes in estrogenic effects and UV absorption properties. We identified covalent hydrogen bond basicity and acidity Propgen value for atomic molecular properties and the highest occupied molecular orbital eigenvalue as the main factors affecting the estrogenic effect and UV absorbance of SEs, respectively. This study focuses on the design and screening of SEs, exhibiting enhanced functionality, reduced health risks, and synthetic feasibility.