Sunscreen

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Patti Farris, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University, for a timely conversation on photoprotection and sunscreen. As new concerns surface among patients, they provide an up-to-date perspective on UV exposure, formulation science, and patient counseling.Dr Farris explains the critical role of UVA radiation, which penetrates deeper into the dermis than UVB and is a major driver of photoaging and skin cancer risk. Unlike UVB, UVA is harder to block because many chemical filters only partially cover this spectrum. She also reviews the controversies surrounding oxybenzone, discussing both endocrine disruption concerns and its debated link to coral reef bleaching, emphasizing the gap between laboratory studies and real-world relevance.The discussion then turns to mineral sunscreens, which have gained popularity amid growing social media skepticism about chemical filters. While they provide strong UVA protection, cosmetic acceptability remains a significant challenge, especially for patients with skin of color due to the persistent issue of white cast. Newer innovations, including the addition of antioxidants, further expand protection by addressing visible light–induced damage. They highlight one example of an advanced formulation that pairs mineral filters with vitamin E to boost UVA defense and improve tolerability across all Fitzpatrick skin types.Finally, they reflect on generational differences in patient counseling. While older patients may prioritize cancer prevention, younger patients often respond more to messaging about photoaging and skin preservation, making it vital to tailor communication strategies.Tune in to the full episode to hear Dr Farris and Dr Del Rosso explore how dermatologists can navigate evolving sunscreen science, address patient concerns with confidence, and make practical recommendations that resonate across age groups and skin types.

Derms and Conditions Podcast

Here Comes the Sun: Little Darlin', Use Your Sunscreen!

Which common medications increase photosensitivity, and how should this shape your counseling?

Are there any patient groups you feel are undercounseled when it comes to the risks of photodamage?

What are your go-to strategies for improving sunscreen adherence in daily life?

What is your take on the role of antioxidants in photoprotection?

Why does a higher SPF still matter in real-world use?

What is Helioplex technology, and how does it improve stability and UV coverage?

What makes a sunscreen particularly effective for pigment protection or visible-light defense?

How do you identify sunscreens that offer reliable broad-spectrum protection beyond SPF ratings?

How do ingredients beyond UV filters, like antioxidants or moisturizers, enhance photoprotection?

What makes a sunscreen well formulated from both a clinician and patient perspective?

Sunscreen Condition Center

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Which common medications increase photosensitivity, and how should this shape your counseling?

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Are there any patient groups you feel are undercounseled when it comes to the risks of photodamage?

What are your go-to strategies for improving sunscreen adherence in daily life?

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Here Comes the Sun: Little Darlin', Use Your Sunscreen!