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.
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.