Role of antioxidant in the formulation of sun filter

Antioxidant substances can be used in the prevention and treatment of cutaneous pathologies, such as photoageing damage and some tumours. Topical use is considered most appropriate since antioxidants concentrate first in the horny layer, a structure very exposed to oxidative stress. The antioxidant activity of most products is due to the association of several principles. In this study, we tested a mixture of three antioxidant substances: tocopherol acetate, ascorbic acid and lycopene (extract of Lycopersicon esculentum). The mixture was incorporated in a standard low-protection sun filter and was evaluated ‘in vivo’ by means of a well-tested experimental device. Different quantities of the product were applied to skin areas which were then irradiated with a sun simulator. The magnitude of the reaction was evaluated with a three-stimulus chromometer. The experimental product provided greater protection than the standard control product, confirming the results of our previous investigations and proving that antioxidants increase the protective capacity of sun filters.