Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations

Abstract

BackgroundIn this article, we review and discuss the photoprotection behavior of Asians based on the literature, along with a subanalysis of an original online survey, and make recommendations to optimize photoprotection for Asian populations to prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.MethodsAn international panel of eight dermatologists from Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam) met to discuss sunscreen photoprotection for Asian patients. Additionally, a subanalysis of an online survey by 3000 respondents from three Asian countries (China, Indonesia, and Japan) investigated general public awareness and attitudes to sun exposure.ResultsA pre‐meeting survey of the eight experts from Asia showed key concerns of Asian patients consulting dermatologists are pigmentary disorders, especially actinic/senile lentigo, post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, vitiligo, and Hori's nevus. The survey subanalysis of participants from China, Indonesia, and Japan with predominantly Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) II to IV revealed that they are particularly concerned about sun exposure causing photoaging and pigmentary disorders. Most of the respondents indicated they have limited knowledge on sunlight radiation and appropriate sunscreen protection factors. Only 22%, 13%, and 3% for China, Indonesia, and Japan, respectively, systematically use multiple protective measures (using sunscreen, avoiding midday sun, staying in the shade, wearing a hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses) when exposed to the sun.ConclusionsFurther education is needed for Asian populations on the importance of comprehensive daily photoprotection, including broad‐spectrum sunscreen, with high UVA and visible light protection, to reduce and prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

Polyphosphazene Microparticles with High Free Radical Scavenging Activity for Skin Photoprotection

“…The appropriate dosage of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from sunlight not only enhances blood circulation and metabolism but also prevents and cures rickets . However, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to various health problems, such as sunburns, photodermatoses, photoaging, and even skin cancers. − To reduce these negative effects, sunscreens have been extensively used to protect the skin from UV rays. Inorganic UV filters, such as titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) and zinc oxide nanoparticles, can reflect and scatter UV rays and are generally regarded as non-skin penetration. , However, they have a considerable photocatalytic generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) , and pose a threat to cellular macromolecules such as proteins, lipids, DNA, and membranes, − causing inflammatory responses, and eventually carcinogenesis. , To eliminate the photoinduced ROS, several strategies such as coating, ion doping, or encapsulation have been adopted to overcome these challenges. , However, some improvements are not always satisfactory and often bring new issues that are not conducive to their application in skin care products.…”