Organic Filter-Based Sunscreens are Safe, Effective, and User-Friendly for Sensitive Skin

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A recent trial and corresponding patch test found that an organic filter-based sunscreen relieved symptoms and improved barrier function for patients with facial dermatitis or sensitive skin.¹ After 8 weeks of use, the product showed improvements in skin sensitivity, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin corneum hydration (SCH).

The study took place at the Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital of Hallym University in Seoul, Korea between December 2022 and July 2023. It included 15 patients, 13 females and 2 males, with an average age of 33. Participants had discomfort and symptoms of sensitive skin on the face for 6 weeks or more. The product was applied twice daily for 8 weeks.

Patient satisfaction feedback regarding the product, its irritation levels, and their willingness to reuse it, was assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Clinical photos and medical records were also collected throughout the study.

Participants were evaluated via the Sensitive scale-10 questionnaire (SS-10) to test area severity, TEWL, and SCH. At baseline, there was an average TEWL of 12.33 ± 4.10, skin moisture of 69.40 ± 28.25, and an SS-10 score of 33.30 ± 24.54. Researchers also measured erythema, papules, pustules, and scales on the cheeks, forehead, center of the face, and chin.

A patch test on 30 individuals (25 female, 5 male) was also utilized to confirm the formula’s success. Reaction criteria was determined using the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group’s standards.

A significant difference of SS-10 was shown at week 8, being reduced to an average of 25.33 ± 17.65. Decreases in overall skin irritation and flushing were also noted. Also at week 8, there was an improvement in erythema, scales, papules, and pustules on both cheeks. Compared to the other categories, erythema decreased significantly as early as 4 weeks after application (p < 0.05).

TEWL decreased to 14.28 ± 5.55 after 4 weeks and then to 12.33 ± 4.10 after 8 weeks. SCH and moisture also improved to 77.06 ± 28.05 at the 4-week mark with even more improvement at the 8-week mark to 79.55 ± 17.91. All patients expressed high levels of satisfaction, and no significant adverse effects or new dermatitis occurred.

According to the patch tests, a majority of patients (96.67%) reacted highly to one or more antigens with no reactions to the cream. Only 1 participant had a mild irritant reaction, which was not displayed on direct application and was resolved in 96 hours.

Even with these positive results, some limitations were noted, including the small sample size and the lack of a control group. Because of this, further studies are needed to confirm the product’s long-term safety and benefits.

Those with sensitive skin symptoms are more susceptible to irritation from UV rays. However, some of the blocking agents in sunscreen can cause irritation or allergies.²

The SPF43 and PA+++ sunscreen (Bariderm Shield Cream MD) contains organic UV filters, is hypoallergenic, and is free from fragrances. The ingredients of bisethylhexyloxyphenolmethoxyphenyltriazine, diethylaminohydroxybenzoylhexylbenzoate, and ethylhexyltriazone, along with the moisturizing agents of ceramides and panthenol, are known for being anti-inflammatory and non-irritating while protecting from phototoxicity. The formulation also does not leave a white residue or sticky texture, differing from inorganic products.

“These ingredients offer broad-spectrum UV protection without the common drawbacks of conventional sunscreens, aiming to improve adherence and patient satisfaction among those with sensitive skin,” the authors wrote.

Further studies are recommended to better understand sunscreen formulations in this patient population while considering efficacy, safety, and environmental considerations.

References

1. Um, J. Y., Choi, M. G., Kim, H. B., et al. The Efficacy of Organic Filter-Based Sunscreens in Alleviating Symptoms and Enhancing the Condition of Sensitive Skin. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 17, 2945–2952. Published 2024 Dec 18. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S486770

2. Li Y, Gong N, Zhou L, et al. OSMAC-Based Discovery and Biosynthetic Gene Clusters Analysis of Secondary Metabolites from Marine-Derived Streptomyces globisporus SCSIO LCY30. Mar Drugs. 2023;22(1):21. Published 2023 Dec 28. doi:10.3390/md22010021