The market segment of sun care products to protect sensitive skin is growing. There is evidence that peroxide free radicals derived from certain formulation components are involved in inducing allergic skin reactions.
These UV-induced free radicals can be assessed by an ESR-based method called Radical Potential (RP), by exposing formulations to UV radiation. BASF experts found a correlation between the amount of UV-inducible peroxides in sunscreen products and the clinical symptoms of Acne aestivalisand, potentially, other types of skin reactions. Their findings offer a rationale for developing low-risk sunscreen formulations by selecting suitable filter systems combined with in-situESR analysis.
Solar radiation does not just cause harm to the skin, it can also affect the efficacy of cosmetic products and sunscreens. Products may undergo oxidation, leading to rancidity, discolouration, and destabilisation. This oxidation process can be minimised by controlling the quality, storage times and conditions of the raw materials. Nevertheless, when applied to the skin, a product is exposed to environmental factors such as sunlight and oxygen, which can quickly and easily start the processes of oxidation and rancidity.
UV radiation can lead to radical chain reactions within a formulation. Some active ingredients in a cosmetic formulation may trigger these radical chain reactions or act as a catalyser:
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