Personalized Photoprotection: Expert Consensus and Recommendations From a Delphi Study Among Dermatologists.

Abstract

Background: Recommending comprehensive personalized photoprotection requires an accurate assessment of the patient's skin, including phototype, lifestyle, exposure conditions, environmental factors, and concomitant cutaneous conditions as well as deep knowledge of the available options: sunscreen ingredients (type of filters, spectrum coverage, sun protection factor, enhanced active ingredients), oral photoprotection, and other methods of sun protection and avoidance.

Objectives: To establish consensus-based recommendations endorsed by an international panel of experts for personalized medical photoprotection recommendations that are applicable globally.

Methods: A two-round Delphi study was designed to determine the degree of agreement and relevance of aspects related to personalized medical photoprotection. Items with ≥ 80% agreement and relevance were considered approved.

Results: A list of 28 recommendations for personalized medical photoprotection was approved by a panel of dermatology professionals from seven different countries. Recommendations were categorized as: (1) updated perspectives in photoprotection, (2) clinical management, (3) skin cancer prevention, (4) dark skin phototypes and skin prone to hyperpigmentation, and (5) age and lifestyle.

Conclusion: This study established recommendations for the implementation of personalized medical photoprotection worldwide, highlighting areas needing further scientific and clinical evidence.