Research Summary
Premature skin aging results from exposure to a range of environmental factors, primarily ultraviolet radiation, but also high-energy visible light in the blue spectrum, infrared radiation, and environmental pollution. These extrinsic factors lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species, promoting photoaging and DNA damage, which may result in skin cancers.
Aims: This study aimed to formulate skincare products utilizing a new coating applied to zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles, along with complementary skincare ingredients, to provide broad protection against various environmental insults.
Methods: A cross-polymer, multifunctional coating of silicate, polyalkylsilsesquioxane, and polydimethylsiloxane moieties was used to increase the photostability and decrease the reactivity of mineral sunscreen agents when exposed to energy sources. These products were also formulated with antioxidants to minimize free radical propagation. In addition, the coating improves the aesthetic feel of mineral sunscreens, while the appearance is enhanced by including a blend of iron oxides.
Results: A series of in vitro and ex vivo studies demonstrated that mineral-based products formulated with the new multifunctional coating provide protection against ultraviolet radiation, high-energy visible light, infrared radiation, and environmental pollution.
Conclusion: The newly formulated mineral-based skincare products offer environmental protection, are ecologically safe, and can serve as a replacement for chemical-based sunscreen ingredients.
Keywords: free radicals, mineral sunscreen, photoaging, physical sunscreen, zinc oxide
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