Benefits of a Multifunctional Sunscreen Formulation Containing Nanoencapsulated Antioxidants in the Skin Protection Against UV Radiation and Blue Light: Clinical and Preclinical Studies.

BACKGROUND: The development of sunscreens with properties beyond photoprotection involves carefully optimizing the blend of ingredients and employing advanced systems to ensure effective delivery through the skin layers. AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a multifunctional photoprotective formulation containing a blend of nanoencapsulated ingredients-ascorbyl palmitate, caffeine, and resveratrol-and the active ingredients niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol, tocopherol, and carnosine in skin protection against UV and blue light radiations, by in vitro, ex vivo, and clinical studies. METHODS: A preclinical approach using human explants was performed to evaluate the protective effects of a sunscreen formulation against damage induced by UV and blue light radiation. In addition, a clinical trial was carried out to evaluate skin acceptability, protection from UV-A and UV-B, collagen synthesis by fluorescence spectroscopy, and skin hydration. RESULTS: The results of the preclinical study showed that the proposed formulation prevented UV-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and stimulated the levels of epidermal opsin-3 photoreceptors, ensuring melanogenesis control. The clinical study showed that the sunscreen was well-tolerated by both skin and eyes, improved skin conditions by upregulating collagen synthesis, and moisturizing the skin. CONCLUSION: The combination of the active ingredients in the proposed formulation was safe and effective for skin protection against ultraviolet radiation, besides promoting collagen synthesis and opsin-3 stimulus.