Topical antioxidants in sunscreens can have skin health benefits, says study

Broad-spectrum sunscreens containing antioxidants can provide measurable skin care benefits beyond sun protection, according to a new study by Schering-Plough HealthCare Products.

The manufacturers of Coppertone presented to the findings of the ex vivo study conducted by an independent researcher at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.

The study found that using certain antioxidants in sunscreens reduced the formation of damaging free radicals by 74% in the skin’s outer layers exposed to UV.

A separate independent 12-week clinical trial also demonstrated that daily use of broad spectrum sunscreens containing blends of antioxidants can also provide additional skin health benefits such as improving moisture and skin tone, promoting a smoother complexion and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, beyond UV protection.

“Emerging research shows that Vitamin E, one of the primary antioxidants in the sunscreen we have tested, is a key ingredient for preserving the skin’s barrier function and for helping maintain skin health,” commented Robert Bianchini, vp research & development, Coppertone Solar Research Center. “Since vitamin E may be lost from the skin during environmental stress, such as outdoor exercise, using a broad spectrum sunscreen with antioxidants proven to help restore these elements is important.”

However the research also found that not all topical antioxidants provide equal benefits under UV exposure, with UV radiation causing an unexpected reaction with certain topical antioxidants, including some plant extracts, when exposed to sunlight turning them into damaging pro-oxidants.

“The results of our research demonstrate that there are many skin health benefits and applications to adding antioxidants to a sunscreen formula and we will continue to explore advancements in how this technology can be used with sun protection to help maintain overall skin health,” concluded Bianchini.