Introduction:The French cosmetics industry sells spring mineral waters that are advertised as having biological benefits.
Objective: This study analyzes, in vitro and in vivo, a Brazilian mineral water''''''''s oligomin- erals composition, as well as its physical and chemical characteristics and biological effects.
Methods: Tests to evaluate physical chemical properties, cytotoxicity (viable cells) and irritability (het-cam test) were conducted. In vitro studies were performed to evaluate its capacity to induce the genic expression and immunohistochemical detection of filaggrin and aquaporin 3, nf-kb activity and fibroblast proliferation compared to Milli Q water.
Results: This water was found to be non-cytotoxic and non-irritating. In addition, it pre- sented a high content of strontium (0.61 mg/ml). The expression of filaggrin and its immunohistochemical tests were relevant. The aquaporin 3 increased 1.8 times and nf-kb decreased its activity by 47%. It was also capable of stimulating fibroblast proliferation.
Conclusion: The initial evaluation of the mineral water from Serra do Japi (SP, Brazil) indicates that it has the potential to be an adjuvant treatment in dermatology, since the results suggest it moisturizes the skin barrier, stimulates the proliferation of fibroblasts, and repairs and inhibits inflammatory reactions. Clinical studies should be done in order to reassure the in vitro results achieved on the present study.

Keywords: MINERAL WATERS, BRAZIL, COSMETICS

Introduction: The aging process of areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun has a clinical pattern different from that of facial photoaging. According to a number of published studies, the combination of retinaldehyde, glycolic acid, and nicotinamide presents promising results. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new dermocosmetic formulation in the treatment of body photoaging. Methods: Clinical, prospective, open, and monocentric study that evaluated 60 volunteers (phototypes I to III) with signs of photoaging in the neck region. Clinical and instrumental measurements (cutometry, corneometry, evaporimetry, and profilometry) were taken in the initial visits and 30 and 60 days after using the study product, which was applied at night, combined with the daytime application of sunscreen. Results: After using the test product, the categories of clinical parameters (wrinkles, smoothness, hydration, and sagging) and biophysical hydration (measured using corneometry) presented statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the intermediate and final visits. Despite showing improvement, the biophysical measurements of skin viscoelasticity and roughness were not statistically significant. Conclusion: This combination was effective in the clinical improvement of body photoaging, and is an effective and safe alternative for treating this condition.

Keywords: SKIN AGING, COSMETICS, THERAPEUTICS

Introduction The pigment mainly responsible for the color of the skin, melanin is directly influenced by exposure to sunlight. Objective: The present study assessed the effects of solar radiation on the levels of melanin in areas exposed and not exposed to the sun, taking into consideration the seasonality of exposure. Methods: Melanin levels were evaluated on the forehead, sacral region, and forearm, in the post-summer and post-winter periods, using spectrophotometry. Results: The levels of melanin after winter were lower than those after summer in the forehead (168.1 vs. 177.0), sacral region (132.0 vs. 140.4), and forearm (218.7 vs. 260. 4), with a statistically significant reduction only in the forearm (p<0.0001).Additionally, erythema was significantly less intense in the forearm and forehead (p<0.0001 and p=0.002) after winter than after summer. Conclusion: The significant reduction of melanin levels in the forearm after winter reinforces the influence of seasonality on skin pigmentation changes to body areas exposed to the sun without protection.The small variation in the levels of melanin found in the unexposed area (sacrum) confirms that the effect of exposure to the sun on the levels of melanin is predominantly local. Increased production of melanin is directly related to local exposure to UV rays.

Keywords: MELANINS; ERYTHEMA;SOLAR RADIATION; PIGMENTATION.

Introduction: Childhood is considered a critical period for photoprotection, since approximately 80% of the exposure to the sun occurs during this phase of life. Objectives: To evaluate the characteristics of the knowledge and sun protection habits of children and their caregivers. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted with questionnaires from October 2011 to July 2012. Results: 177 children (mean age = 7.66 years); 64.9% of children assessed exposure to the sun as dangerous, 88.7% knew what sunscreen is, and 94.3% considered its use important; however, 66.6% believed it was necessary only in summer. Regarding photoprotection habits, 37.3% reported exposure to the sun between 10a.m. and 4p.m. Among caregivers, 81.3% reported an absence of daily application of sunscreen on their children, and 33.9% reported that their children had already had some type of sunburn. Conclusions: Strong dissociation between knowledge and practice regarding exposure to the sun was observed in the present study. The discrepancy between knowledge and habits that was observed in the two groups can be explained by the quality of information on exposure to the sun. The present study’s data point to the need for a wider dissemination of adequate knowledge, both by the media and by physicians, to nurture healthy practices regarding exposure to the sun.

Keywords: SOLAR ACTIVITY; SUN PROTECTION FACTOR; SUNSCREENING AGENTS; CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS; CAREGIRVES

Introdução: Hyperpigmentation is a common dermatological condition, usually associated with exposure to the sun and relative difficulty of treatment. Pycnogenol^® is an extract obtained from the French pine tree Pinus pinaster, with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, having been proven to inhibit melanin synthesis in previous studies. Objective: To evaluate the whitening activity of Pycnogenol^® in an ex vivo experimental model after exposure to ultraviolet A and B, infrared-A radiations and visible light. Method: Human skin fragments obtained from elective plastic surgery were treated with Pycnogenol ^® and then irradiated with ultraviolet A and B, and infrared-A radiations, and visible light, having been sent for histological evaluation of melanin pigmentation by the Fontana-Masson staining technique. Results: The histological evaluation demonstrated an increase in melanin deposition in all irradiated groups. However, fragments pre-incubated with Pycnogenol^® showed a reduction in the deposition of this pigment after irradiation. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the reduced melanin deposition in skin culture treated with Pycnogenol^® after irradiation with ultraviolet A and B, and infrared-A radiations, and visible light, concluding that this substance may have lightening properties.

Keywords: HYPERPIGMENTATION; SKIN LIGHTENING PREPARATIONS; SOLAR RADIATION

Introduction: Infrared radiation (IR-A) causes structural changes in the skin, similar to those caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Evaluation of efficacy and safety of cosmetic products concentrates in in vitro tests and clinical trials. A promising alternative is the use of fragments of human skin from elective cosmetic surgery, to evaluate the actual clinical benefits of a product applied topically.
Objective: The objective of this study was to correlate IR-A radiation effects in biopsies and in ex vivo skin fragments and in human fibroblasts culture by quantifying MMP-1, TIMP-1 and GADD45a mediators.
Methods: Collection of biopsies from 15 volunteers after IR-A applications for 5 consecutive days. Exposure to IR-A radiation of human skin fragments from elective cosmetic surgery, and human fibroblasts culture. Measurement of MMP-1, TIMP-1 and GADD45a mediators for further comparison of results.
Results: In the three models used, the IR-A radiation induced an increase in MMP-1, inhibited the synthesis of GADD45a, and did not changed TIMP-1 values.
Conclusion: Due to the positive correlation of the models studied, it may be suggested the use of ex vivo skin as plausible and sustainable tool to overcome differences between knowledge generated from in vitro and clinical experiments.

Keywords: SKIN AGING; MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASE 1; SOLAR RADIATION; IN VITRO TECHNIQUES

Introduction: Overexposure of the skin to the sunlight can cause photoaging and promote the emergence of malignant neoplasms. Sunscreens are used to prevent these alterations and may occasionally cause adverse reactions in children and adults.
Objective: To analyze the frequency and types of adverse reactions caused by sunscreens in adults and children.
Methods: Data analysis of in vivo, non-invasive clinical studies performed at a clinical research institute.
Results: Data from 2,263 adults and 523 children were evaluated, with 13.92% and 4.44%, respectively, presenting some type of reaction.
Conclusions: Sunscreens are effective in preventing photoaging and skin cancer. Cosmetic formulations containing sunscreens may cause adverse reactions with low prevalence.

Keywords: SUNSCREENING AGENTS; CONTROL AND SANITARY SUPERVISION OF COSMETICS; SUN PROTECTION FACTOR; COSMETICS

Introduction: The number of cases of cutaneous carcinoma has been steadily increasing, which calls for the necessity of improving cost effective health strategies aimed at preventing that disease and related complications.
Objective: To perform a cross-sectional study with data collected directly from the participants, through the application of a questionnaire.
Methods: Once the data was collected, the bivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) between the independent variables and the risk behavior, which corresponded to the non-daily use of sunscreen and/or other photoprotection method. The sample consisted of 200 students – of which 50% studied mathematical sciences and 50% studied biological sciences.
Results: There was no significant difference between the students' behavior according to the different science field they were studying. Women presented lower risk behavior as compared to men (OR = 0.07; CI 95% = 0.01 - 0.56).
Conclusions: Most university students do not protect themselves adequately when exposed to the sun, with this risk behavior being lower in women. Actions aimed at photo-educating students are important.

Keywords: Disease prevention; Skin; Solar radiation; Students

Some cosmetics manufacturers have sought to employ ecologically correct manufacturing processes and use ingredients sourced from biodiversity. The present paper introduces a scientific review for professionals who prescribe such products. The bibliographic survey was performed using databases and keyword searches. Cosmetic products can be conventional, natural or organic. Those classified as natural contain ingredients of natural origin, while a great part of the raw materials used in organic ones must be certified as organic. Labels indicate the type of ingredients used in natural and organic formulations, however there is no standardization, meaning that prescribers should have sound conceptual knowledge on the subject.

Keywords: Control and sanitary supervision of cosmetics; Cosmetics; Cosmetic industry; Cosmetic labeling

Scar formation is the natural healing response of the skin to reestablish dermal integrity after an injury. Besides being unsightly, the scars can also be hypertrophic or keloids, which makes treatment challenging and many times unsatisfactory. Ethnicity and site of the lesion have an important role in the formation of scar types, but it is not always possible to predict the final result. The use of topical silicone has been an option for scar management and the target of many publications over the years. It is believed that its early use can prevent the development of abnormal scars and treat existing scars.

Keywords: Scars, prevention & control; Silicone gels; Treatment

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

The increase in the incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) affects all age groups, including young patients under twenty years old. Because it is poorly remembered in this group of patients, late diagnosis and treatment of this neoplasia may be more common. Like other age groups, excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the main associated risk factor; however, genetic factors may also be involved in non-syndromic cases. We report a case of BCC on the face of an adolescent treated with Mohs micrographic surgery.

Keywords: Adolescent; Carcinoma, Basal Cell; Epidemiology; Mohs Surgery; Solar Radiation

O queratoacantoma (QA), apesar de frequente na prática diária, é um tumor que gera questionamentos. O aspecto mais intrigante associa-se à sua posição no limite entre malignidade e benignidade. A abordagem do tumor, bem como sua classificação, é controversa. Na definição da conduta, é importante levar em conta o potencial de transformação para carcinoma espinocelular. Desse modo, a excisão cirúrgica é a terapia de escolha, sempre que possível. Algumas situações merecem atenção adicional, como a imunossupressão associada. Neste artigo, relatamos um caso de QA gigante em um paciente com síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida tratado com cirurgia micrográfica de Mohs.

Keywords: Ceratoacantoma; Retalhos Cirúrgicos; Neoplasias Nasais; Neoplasias Cutâneas; Cirurgia de Mohs; Síndrome de Imunodeficiência Adquirida; HIV; Imunossupressão

Sarcomas são neoplasias mesenquimais malignas, raras, que acometem, principalmente, crianças e adolescentes. O rabdomiossarcoma, subtipo oriundo da musculatura esquelética, é condição incomum em adultos, acometendo sítios de localização não habitual, crescimento rápido e de difícil tratamento. Apresenta-se caso de adulto jovem com nodulação em lóbulo auricular esquerdo, cuja análise histopatológica e imuno-histoquímica confirmou tratar-se de rabdomiossarcoma alveolar, o qual foi conduzido em conjunto com a Oncologia.

Keywords: Rabdomiossarcoma Alveolar; Miogenina; Desmina; Excisão de Linfonodo

Polypodium leucotomos extract was first described in the literature 55 years ago, demonstrating anti-inflammatory action in dermatoses such as vitiligo and psoriasis. It is currently available as an oral and topical photoprotection agent in more than 26 countries to prevent and treat dermatoses resulting from solar radiation, such as polymorphous light eruption, melasma, actinic keratoses, skin cancer, and photoaging, among others. In Brazil, ANVISA registered the patented Polypodium leucotomos extract in 2012. After 10 years of its launch, its recommendation by Brazilian dermatologists is well established and is presented in this review paper.

Keywords: Solar radiation; Sunscreening agents; Polypodium