Safety and Tolerance Evaluation of a Suncare Product in Ethnically Diverse Children With Atopic Dermatitis-Prone Skin

August 2024 | Volume 23 | Issue 8 | 669 | Copyright © August 2024


Published online July 19, 2024

doi:10.36849/JDD.8282

Hawasatu Dumbuya PhDa, Zoe Diana Draelos MDb, Caroline Le Floc'h c, Katharine Podimatis MAa

aLa Roche-Posay Laboratoire Dermatologique, L’Oréal USA, New York, NY
bDermatology Consulting Services, PLLC, High Point, NC
cLa Roche-Posay Laboratoire Dermatologique, L’Oréal, Levallois-Perret, France

Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition, with high prevalence in children. Sun protection is important for children with eczema and AD-prone skin, yet many sunscreens can cause skin irritation due to their formulations. In this study, we evaluated the safety and tolerance of an SPF 50 sunscreen in ethnically diverse children with a history of AD over 4 weeks of product use. A total of 45 children from diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, aged 3 to 12 years old with skin phototypes I-VI, plus a history of eczema and perceived sensitive skin completed the study. All participants applied sunscreen daily on the face and body, at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and as needed. After 4 weeks, evaluations were performed by a dermatologist and by participants for tolerability. Product performance questionnaires were also completed by parents/guardians of pediatric participants. After 4 weeks of sunscreen application, tolerability assessments of skin dryness, peeling, erythema, and edema were all absent in children participants. Parent/guardian evaluations of sunscreen tolerability for their child also revealed no perceived skin issues. These results were consistent with no adverse event being observed throughout the study. Parents/guardians reported that sunscreen application on children was smooth and even, with the absence of a white cast appearance on children with skin of color. We conclude from this study that this SPF 50 sunscreen is safe to use in ethnically diverse children with a history of AD and sensitive skin.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(8):669-673.  doi:10.36849/JDD.8282

INTRODUCTION

Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition, characterized by dry, itchy skin, making individuals more susceptible to skin infections and other complications.1 This condition results in relapsing dermatosis associated with pruritus, sleep disturbance, and impaired quality of life. AD affects 10% to 20% of school-aged children.2 The prevalence has increased two to threefold over the past three decades in industrialized countries and there is evidence to suggest that this prevalence is increasing.4 AD affects diverse ethnic groups with varying prevalence. Despite a predominance of studies in individuals of European ancestry, AD has been found to occur more frequently in Asian and Black individuals than White individuals.8 Clinically, there is notable phenotypic variability driven by a complex interaction between genetics, immune function, and the environment. Environmental factors such as sun exposure, temperature, and humidity contribute to both AD flares and regional prevalence variation.3

There are few studies on the role of photoprotection in AD. The use of adequate sunscreens in participants with AD can ensure the level of photoprotection required to prevent skin photoaging and skin cancer, mitigate skin barrier dysfunction, decrease inflammation, and neutralize facial redness.5 Sunscreen use could play a significant role in managing AD by protecting the delicate skin of children with AD from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.3

While sun protection is important for children with eczema and AD-prone skin, many sunscreens can cause skin irritation due to their formulations.6 Selecting the right sunscreen for children with AD is crucial. It is advisable to choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for sensitive skin, preferably one that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Fragrances and certain chemicals in regular sunscreens may trigger allergic reactions or worsen existing skin conditions. Additionally, a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays is essential for comprehensive sun protection. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and tolerance of a hypoallergenic SPF 50 sunscreen in ethnically diverse children with a history of AD over 4 weeks of product use.