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Sunscreens: An Update

American Journal of Clinical Dermatology volume 18, pages 643–650 (2017)Cite this article

Abstract

Sunscreens have been widely used by the general public for their photoprotective properties, including prevention of photocarcinogenesis and photoaging and management of photodermatoses. It is important to emphasize to consumers the necessity of broad-spectrum protection, with coverage of both ultraviolet A (320–400 nm) and ultraviolet B (290–320 nm) radiation. This review discusses the benefits of sunscreen, different ultraviolet filters, sunscreen regulations and controversies, the importance of broad-spectrum protection, issues of photostability and formulation, and patient education and compliance.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA

    Jennifer Brescoll Mancuso & Henry W. Lim

  2. Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA

    Rohit Maruthi

  3. Department of Dermatology, Memorial Sloane Kettering, New York, NY, USA

    Steve Q. Wang

  4. Department of Dermatology, Henry Ford Medical Center-New Center One, 3031 W. Grand Boulevard, Suite 800, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA

    Henry W. Lim

Authors
  1. Jennifer Brescoll Mancuso
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  2. Rohit Maruthi
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  4. Henry W. Lim
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Henry W. Lim.

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Conflicts of interest

Henry W. Lim has received research grants from Clinuvel, Estée Lauder, Ferndale, and Allergan and consulting fees from Pierre Fabre, Ferndale, Uriage, Sanofi, and Johnson & Johnson. Steve Wang has been a consultant for Ferndale and Neutrogena. Rohit Maruthi and Jennifer Brescoll Mancuso have no conflicts of interest.

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No funding was received for the preparation of this review.

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Mancuso, J.B., Maruthi, R., Wang, S.Q. et al. Sunscreens: An Update. Am J Clin Dermatol 18, 643–650 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-017-0290-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-017-0290-0

Keywords

  • Zinc Oxide
  • Critical Wavelength
  • Oxybenzone
  • Avobenzone
  • Sunscreen Application