Photoprotection: The Need
Photosensitivity of the skin results from exposure to sunlight, so absolute avoidance of the sun would eliminate these disorders. Unfortunately, modern contemporary life-styles make this an impractical alternative for most individuals, and this has led to a search for better approaches to photoprotection.
The structural proteins in the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) confer natural photoprotection, in particular keratins and melanin (pigment responsible for color of the skin). The amount of melanin and its distribution in cells is genetically regulated, and individuals of darker complexion (skin types IV–VI) are at decreased risk for the development of acute sunburn and cutaneous malignancy and other photosensitivity diseases.
Categories: Skin Care Tags: Photosensitivity, SPF
