Dermatology:

The second part of this CME article discusses sunscreen regulation and safety considerations for humans and the environment. First, we provide an overview of the history of the US Food and Drug Administration's regulation of sunscreen. Recent Food and Drug Administration studies clearly demonstrate that organic ultraviolet filters are systemically absorbed during routine sunscreen use, but to date there is no evidence of associated negative health effects. We also review the current evidence of sunscreen's association with vitamin D levels and frontal fibrosing alopecia, and recent concerns regarding benzene contamination. Finally, we review the possible environmental effects of ultraviolet filters, particularly coral bleaching. While climate change has been shown to be the primary driver of coral bleaching, laboratory-based studies suggest that organic ultraviolet filters represent an additional contributing factor, which led several localities to ban certain organic filters.

As our knowledge of the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation continues to evolve, sunscreen remains an integral part of a comprehensive photoprotection strategy against multiple endpoints of ultraviolet radiation-mediated damage. Part 1 of this review covers sunscreen active and additive ingredient properties, mechanisms of action and gaps in coverage. Following an overview of sunscreen's efficacy in protecting against sunburn, photocarcinogenesis, photoaging, pigmentary disorders, and idiopathic photodermatoses, we highlight considerations for product use and selection in children and individuals with skin of color.

Skin diseases vary significantly across racial and ethnic groups, influenced by genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. However, patients with skin of color (SOC) have historically been underrepresented in research, resulting in disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and access to care. In the April issue of the Journal, we dedicate attention to these key disparities. We focus on the differences in clinical symptoms and treatment challenges related to inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa in SOC patients.

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available

No abstract available