Sunscreens: Misconceptions and Misinformation

A Comprehensive Analysis of Skin Cancer Concerns and Protective Practices in Manitoba, Canada, Highlights Lack of Skin Cancer Awareness and Predominance of High-Risk Sun Exposure Behaviors

The rapidly increasing skin cancer rates in Canada are alarming, with current data estimating that 1/3 of Canadians will be affected in their lifetime. Thus, deeper understanding of high-risk sun exposure behaviors is needed to help counter this trend. Only limited action has been taken by federal/provincial governments to reduce skin cancer incidence. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in Manitoba, with frequency counts, means, and percentages used to encapsulate responses. Age- and gender-adjusted odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression analyses. Our study identified worrying inadequacies in sun protective behaviors and attitudes, with the threat of such high-risk behaviors amplified by a lack of skin cancer awareness. Alarming elements were noted in participants' sun exposure history (>65% reported a history of sunburns, >50% previously used a tanning bed, and >75% recently tanned for pleasure), beliefs and attitudes (>50% believe that they look better/healthier with a tan, and >40% believe that having a base tan is protective against further sun damage), and sun protection efforts (sun protective clothing was used <60% of the time, sunscreen was used by <50%, and there was a lack of knowledge about sunscreen characteristics in ~30% of respondents), in addition to significant differences being established between demographic subgroups (based on gender, age, skin phototype, income, and education attained). This study provides worrisome insight onto the grim landscape of sun protective behaviors and attitudes in Manitoba, which will inevitably translate into higher skin cancer rates and should serve as a call to action to promote targeted public health messaging in this jurisdiction and beyond.

Enhanced skin regeneration and therapeutic delivery using novel diamond-augmented zinc oxide

BACKGROUND

Recent advancements in dermatological therapeutics have highlighted the need for treatments that enhance skin regeneration and healing. Diamond-Augmented Zinc Oxide (ND-ZnO) technology combines zinc oxide with diamond particles in a unique core-shell structure, offering a multifaceted approach to overall skin health.

AIMS

This study evaluates the efficacy of ND-ZnO in promoting human dermal fibroblast migration and growth, enhancing total collagen synthesis, and improving transdermal delivery of active ingredients as a daily comprehensive skin regeneration topical therapy.

PATIENTS/METHODS

In vitro assays assessed wound healing, collagen production, and skin absorption. Human Dermal Fibroblasts (HDFs) were used in scratch wound assays. Collagen synthesis was quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Permeation tests were performed on reconstructed human epidermal tissues to evaluate niacinamide absorption. Clinical case studies validated ND-ZnO efficacy in post-CO₂ laser treatments and Actinic Keratosis removal recovery.

RESULTS

ND-ZnO increased HDF migration by 198% compared to controls. Collagen synthesis assays showed a 71.3% restoration of collagen production in aged HDFs. Skin permeation studies revealed a 203% increase in niacinamide skin absorption with ND-ZnO. Clinical case studies demonstrated faster and more effective healing post-ablative CO₂ laser and significant improvements in Actinic Keratosis recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

ND-ZnO technology enhances wound healing, collagen synthesis, and active ingredient delivery, offering substantial benefits for daily skin regeneration and other dermatological applications. This innovative approach holds promise for advancing dermatological therapeutics, providing comprehensive skin care solutions that address both protective and regenerative needs.

Hyaluronic acid/polyphenol sunscreens with broad-spectrum UV protection properties from tannic acid and quercetin

Currently, commercial sunscreens cause a number of biotoxicity and environmental issues, making it imperative to develop biocompatible alternatives. In this study, we aimed to develop an alternative sunscreen from two ecofriendly and biocompatible natural polyphenolic compounds, tannic acid (TA) and quercetin (Que). The sunscreen was prepared through a simple process using an oil-in-water emulsion as the medium and hyaluronic acid (HA) as the base polymer to improve biocompatibility. The HA/TA/Que. sunscreen prepared in this study exhibits 0 % transmittance in the UVB region and <15 % transmittance in the UVA region, resulting in excellent sun-protection properties (SPF 30). Remarkably, the as-prepared HA/TA/Que. sunscreen has a suitable viscosity and similar UV protection properties to those of commercial sunscreens. The HA/TA/Que. sunscreen also exhibits 90.4 % antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, demonstrating an ability to effectively capture reactive oxygen species that directly affect the skin. In addition, the cell viability was >90 % at a concentration of 50 μg/mL after 7 days, indicating excellent cytocompatibility. Owing to its various advantageous features, the HA/TA/Que. sunscreen with excellent sun protection properties and multiple functionalities is expected to resolve many environmental and biological issues caused by commercial sunscreens.