[Chemoprevention of photocarcinogenesis using antioxidants]

The skin is constantly exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS) from both endogenous and exogenous sources. Ultraviolet irradiation is a well-known contributor of photocarcinogenesis and photoaging, as it - among other things - promotes the production of ROS which damage nucleic acids, proteins and lipids. Topical or oral administration of antioxidants is presumed to counteract the damaging effects of ROS to the skin, thus potentially lowering the risk of skin cancers and skin aging. We review the current literature on chemoprevention of photocarcinogenesis using antioxidants.