The frequency of reactions to sunscreens: results of a longitudinal population-based study on the regular use of sunscreens in Australia

Photoprotection

Protection from solar ultraviolet radiation is discussed. Methods of protection include avoiding outdoor activities during times of greatest ultraviolet radiation insolation, seeking shade while outdoors, and wearing appropriate clothing. Sunscreens are reviewed, including newer compounds that may also offer photoprotection.

Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer to keratinocytes--a review

The introduction and expression of a foreign gene provide a powerful tool for investigating functions and regulation of a gene of interest; however, keratinocytes have a major drawback in that foreign genes are hardly transfected by conventional methods and stable transformants are most difficult to establish in normal keratinocytes with a limited short life span. To overcome these problems, we used an adenovirus vector, Ax, developed by Saito et al, which yields desired recombinant viruses at an efficiency about 100-fold that of conventional methods, and by which genes are expressed at a high level under the control of a composite CAG promoter. We established Ax vectors carrying various isoforms of protein kinase C (PKC). Using these vectors, we found that the eta and delta isoforms of PKC, but not the alpha and zeta isoforms, mediate terminal differentiation in normal human keratinocytes. These Ax-vectors are also applicable to organ culture of mouse embryos. Advantages and disadvantages of adenovirus vectors and their use for keratinocyte biology are reviewed.

Sunscreens. Use and misuse

Although sunscreens are widely available and in common use, surveys show that an average of only half of the people on a beach on a given day wear sunscreens. Many people go to the beach to get or maintain a suntan, but many people also leave their skin unprotected. This article discusses the proper use of sunscreens, common misunderstandings, and how unprotected long-term exposure to the sun can effect your skin.

The compliance of renal transplant recipients with advice about sun protection measures

Renal transplant recipients have an increased risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation is one of the major cofactors in the development of skin cancer in the immunosuppressed. In view of this, we undertook this study to determine the advice given to renal transplant recipients and their compliance with that advice. Two hundred and two renal transplant recipients were interviewed using a questionnaire. Their knowledge about the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer and preventive measures was not good, despite advice and literature given to newly transplanted patients at the time of discharge from hospital. Only 54% remembered receiving advice. Renal physicians and nurses gave advice to the majority, with dermatologists providing advice only in 17% of cases. The use of sun-protective measures such as sun avoidance and protective clothing was poor and the use of sun barrier creams was inappropriate. Only 30% of patients knew why extra precautions against sunlight were necessary. Health professionals and dermatologists in particular need to take a more active role in raising the awareness of renal transplant recipients to their increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.

7 years experience of photopatch testing with sunscreen allergens in Sweden

Since 1990 7 sunscreen allergens have been included in the standard photopatch protocol at 2 Swedish dermatology clinics. 355 consecutive patients with suspected photosensitivity were tested, and in 28 of these (7.9%), a total of 42 allergic reactions were found. 80% of the reactions were of photocontact origin. The most common allergen was benzophenone-3 (Eusolex 4360), with 15 photocontact and 1 contact allergic reactions, followed by isopropyl dibenzoylmethane (Eusolex 8020) (8 photocontact, 4 contact) and butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (Parsol 1789), with 6 photocontact reactions. There were 2 cases of photocontact allergy to phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (Eusolex 232), which has not been reported previously. 1 case of contact urticaria from benzophenone-3 was accidentally found. In addition, 21 + reactions of doubtful relevance were noted in 14 patients: 16 on irradiated and 5 on non-irradiated test sites. Among these, irritant and phototoxic reactions may be included. These results indicate that the inclusion of UV filters in the standard photopatch protocol is important. Immediate-type testing for urticaria could also be of value.

Help patients get serious about sunscreens

Sunscreens are vital for avoiding skin damage from the sun. Unfortunately, many people don't get the complete benefits of sunscreens because they misuse or misunderstand the products. Physicians who talk to patients about skin protection can dispel myths about sunscreens and advise patients about how to correctly select and use the products.

Drug photosensitivity, idiopathic photodermatoses, and sunscreens

Photosensitization may be defined as a process in which a reaction to normally innocuous radiation is induced by the introduction of a specific radiation-absorbing substance (the photosensitizer) that causes another component (the substrate) to be changed by the radiation. This review focuses on photosensitization produced by exogenous chemicals. Idiopathic photodermatoses, including polymorphous light eruption and its variants, solar urticaria and chronic actinic dermatitis, are also discussed. Clinical recognition patterns of the photodermatoses are stressed as well as several diagnostic procedures available for confirmation of the condition. Finally, descriptions, therapeutic uses, and adverse reactions of sunscreens are provided.