Visible Light Protection: An Updated Review of Tinted Sunscreens
Muyang He, Xihe Chen, Shanglin Jin, Chengfeng Zhang
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Visible light (VL), a substantial component of solar radiation, contributes to skin photodamage, including hyperpigmentation and erythema. Tinted sunscreens have emerged as effective tools for mitigating VL-induced effects, yet challenges remain in their adoption and utilization. This review updates recent evidence on their clinical efficacy and explores obstacles constraining their broader recognition and utilization. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed on December 28, 2024, across MEDLINE, PubMed, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science using Mesh Terms "visible light," "sunscreens," and keywords related to "tinted sunscreen." A total of 89 articles were initially retrieved. After screening for relevance and recent publication, 67 articles were selected for detailed review. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: Tinted sunscreens outperform non-tinted products in protecting against VL-induced photodamage and managing melasma relapse, extending photoprotection beyond UV radiation. However, their adoption is limited by the lack of standardized guidelines and unified evaluation metrics, and inadequate shade diversity for skin of color. Future research should focus on expanding shade ranges, establishing comprehensive evaluation standards, and refining formulations with active ingredients.