Historical perspective on sunscreens: Shift towards worldwide individualized photoprotection

Abstract

Today's Western lifestyle leads to increasing rates of skin cancers. Photoprotection behavior has become a hot topic in the last decades. This historical review aims at understanding modern photoprotection advice, considering decades of dermatological and photobiological research. The link between social trends, the main scientific discoveries in the field of photobiology and photoprotection strategies developed by dermatologists and industrials thanks to technological advances is narrated. Photoprotection strategies evolve in response to consumers’ demands and concerns. Here are described many social shifts, from the apparition of retributed holidays to the rise of personalized cosmetic trends. In the discussion, the most up-to-date personalized dermatological advice is presented, according to a panel of dermatologists and photoprotection experts.