Surg Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;11(4):310-318
INTRODUCTION: Polypodium Leucatomos Extract (PLE) is a recognized topical and oral photoprotective agent that adds biological protection to physical and chemical filters.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of an SPF 90 sunscreen containing physical and chemical filters, and PLE in reducing sun damage when compared to the same formulation but without the presence of PLE.
METHODS: Ten volunteers were included, each representing 4 areas (non-irradiated skin; irradiated and unprotected skin; irradiated and protected with sunscreen not containing PLE; irradiated and protected with sunscreen containing PLE) exposed to solar radiation. Colorimetric evaluations of erythema and pigmentation were performed. Samples were collected for histopathology.
RESULTS: The area treated with PLE-containing SPF 90 sunscreen, compared to the sunscreen of the same formulation but without the presence of PLE, showed lower intensity of erythema and pigmentation, lower generation of sunburn cells, p53, and MMP-1, and higher CD1-a cell positivity (lower Langerhans cell depletion).
CONCLUSIONS: The association of Polypodium Leucatomos Extract with physical and chemical filters is effective in reducing the damage caused by solar radiation. The presence of EPL in the formulation contributed to the reduction of damage when compared to the formulation without the active.
Keywords: Sunscreens; Polypodium; Solar radiation