Evaluation of a sunscreen for phototoxic and photo-irritant potential via photo patch testing

Monil Gala; Snehal Muchhala; Gauri Dhanaki; Arti Sanghavi; Bhavesh Kotak

doi:10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20261099

Authors

Monil Gala Department of Medical Affairs, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Hyderabad, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9466-3301
Snehal Muchhala Department of Medical Affairs, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Hyderabad, India
Gauri Dhanaki Department of Medical Affairs, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Hyderabad, India
Arti Sanghavi
Bhavesh Kotak Department of Medical Affairs, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd., Hyderabad, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2455-4529.IntJResDermatol20261099

Keywords:

Venusia Sun Unseen Sunscreen, Draize scale, Photo-patch test, Phototoxicity, Skin safety

Abstract

Background: Evaluation of the potential of Venusia Sun Unseen Sunscreen to induce phototoxicity (photo irritation) in adult participants, using a photo patch test technique.

Methods: This is a monocentric, non-randomised, single-application study to evaluate the potential of the Venusia sun unseen sunscreen to induce phototoxicity in adult participants, using a photo patch test technique. Two treatment sites were tested on the back of each subject and the grading was done for erythema/dryness/wrinkles (A) and oedema (O) reactions on the Draize scale. At both sites ~0.04 g of the test sunscreen was applied occlusively (T1 and T2) at visit 1. One additional site (C1) in the adjoining skin was exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light for the same period to act as a control (no product was applied on this site) for the UV exposure. At 24 hrs, T1 and C1 were UV-exposed and T1 reapplied; T2 stayed occlusive. All sites were scored at 48 hrs, with recovery confirmed at 1 week.

Results: The study included 26 healthy male and female participants aged 18-65 years. At 48 hrs, mean combined phototoxicity scores (A + O) were low across sites: 0.04 at control (C1), 0.75 at UV-exposed test site (T1), and 0.96 at unexposed test site (T2). No study-related adverse events (AEs) or intolerances were reported.

Conclusions: Venusia sun unseen sunscreen is well tolerated and suitable for long-term daily use, including in individuals with sensitive skin. Regular application helps reduce cumulative UV damage and lowers the risk of skin cancers.

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