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Emollients and photo(chemo)therapy: a call for caution
Background:
Emollients used for skin care, treatment of a disease or lubrication, before irradiation during the course of phototherapy or photochemotherapy, may significantly interfere with the transmission of UV light and may influence the outcome of the therapy.
Objective:
These experiments should characterize and quantify the possible interactions of usual emollients with UV light transmission.
Method:
The method was an in vitro technique similar to the one already used for the determination of sun protection factors of topical sunscreen preparations.
Results:
Among the products tested, two showed a significant photoprotection capable of interfering with the course of therapy. Oils enhanced UV light transmission significantly.
Conclusions:
Emollients may show significant interference with UV light transmission during phototherapy or photochemotherapy. The outcome and course of the therapy could thus be significantly modified.