UV Protection Enhanced by Antioxidants

DALLAS—Looking to enhance protection from the sun’s rays? Consider adding an antioxidant cocktail to the sunscreen formulation for optimal UV (ultraviolet) screening, CosmeticsDesign reported. In a recent study, supported and conducted by L’Oreal USA with independent scientists, 10 adult women applied a mixture of vitamin C, ferulic acid and the polyphenol phloretin (CFerPhlor) or a control product to the lower back for four days before UV exposure. Advance application protected against skin reddening (erythema) and markers of DNA damage; the antioxidants also prevented UV-induced upregulation of MMP-9, an enzyme that breaks down skin collagen. Because their benefits were not related to screening out the UV radiation, the compound works in concert with more traditional sunscreens.

The study was published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2008;7:290-97).