INTRODUCTION
Approximately 44% of sunlight is composed of visible light (VL).1 VL has been shown to have multiple biologic effects on the skin 2 including DNA damage secondary to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines,3 worsening of photo-exacerbated conditions,4 and pigmentation in melano- competent individuals.5,6 Pigmentation caused by VL occurs in 3 stages.6 The first, immediate pigment darkening (IPD), occurs immediately after exposure and can last up to 2 hours. IPD is followed by persistent pigment darkening (PPD), which occurs between 2 to 24 hours after exposure. Both IPD and PPD are caused by the oxidation and redistribution of existing melanin in the skin.The final stage is delayed tanning (DT), which occurs 24 hours to several days after exposure and is caused by the new production of melanin.6
Disorders of pigmentation such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are relatively common in those with skin of color. Affected individuals often note worsening of cutaneous hyperpigmentation after sun exposure despite appropriate application of broad- spectrum sunscreens. This is in part because currently available organic sunscreens and micronized inorganic sunscreens primarily protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, but are ineffective against VL.4 Iron oxides, which are present in make-up and tinted products, are effective against VL. However, many people are resistant to the idea of wearing “make-up†for photoprotection. They are also not water or sweat resistant. Taken together, alternative, and supplementary methods of protection against VL induced effects, such as oral antioxidants, are necessary.
Disorders of pigmentation such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are relatively common in those with skin of color. Affected individuals often note worsening of cutaneous hyperpigmentation after sun exposure despite appropriate application of broad- spectrum sunscreens. This is in part because currently available organic sunscreens and micronized inorganic sunscreens primarily protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, but are ineffective against VL.4 Iron oxides, which are present in make-up and tinted products, are effective against VL. However, many people are resistant to the idea of wearing “make-up†for photoprotection. They are also not water or sweat resistant. Taken together, alternative, and supplementary methods of protection against VL induced effects, such as oral antioxidants, are necessary.
