title: Adverse effects of sunscreens in photosensitive patients.
abstract: Experimental and epidemiological evidence shows that the common photosensitive disorder of polymorphic light eruption is caused by the ultraviolet A component of sunlight. Sunscreens protect mainly against ultraviolet B; consequently they reduce sunburn and allow longer periods of exposure to the sun and to greater doses of ultraviolet A than would otherwise be possible. Patients with polymorphic light eruption who intend to obtain a tan by sunbathing should not, therefore, be treated with sunscreens which may worsen their rash, but should be advised to sunbathe without sunscreens for a shorter time.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne.
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Farr
authors.forename: B L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Diffey
mesh_terms: D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D014943:Global Health; D006801:Humans; D010787:Photosensitivity Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D012621:Seasons; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D013473:Sunscreening Agents