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Phototoxicity to a sunscreen ingredient. Padimate A
Archives of Dermatology
|April 1, 1978
Summary
Amyl paradimethylaminobenzoate (padimate A), a sunscreen ingredient, can cause phototoxic reactions resembling sunburn when exposed to UV-A light. This adverse effect, characterized by epidermal vacuolar degeneration, was observed in studies using both the compound and proprietary sunscreens containing it.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Photobiology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Para-aminobenzoic acid esters are common sunscreen ingredients.
- Amyl paradimethylaminobenzoate (padimate A) is one such ester.
- Sunscreens are intended to protect against UV radiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phototoxic potential of amyl paradimethylaminobenzoate (padimate A).
- To characterize the skin reactions induced by padimate A and UV-A exposure.
- To evaluate proprietary sunscreens containing padimate A.
Main Methods:
- Human subjects were exposed to controlled dosages of UV-A radiation after application of padimate A.
- Skin reactions were assessed clinically and histologically.
- Proprietary sunscreen formulations containing padimate A were also tested.
Main Results:
- UV-A exposure (approx. 30 J/cm²) with padimate A induced reactions resembling sunburn in most subjects.
- Histological examination revealed vacuolar degeneration of the epidermis, distinct from typical sunburn cells.
- Commercial sunscreens with padimate A elicited similar phototoxic responses.
Conclusions:
- Amyl paradimethylaminobenzoate (padimate A) can cause phototoxic reactions.
- The observed reaction mimics sunburn, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and delayed recognition of adverse effects.
- The phototoxicity of padimate A raises concerns about the efficacy and safety of sunscreens containing this ingredient.