What's New in Natural Compounds for Photoprotection?

We have reviewed the newest properties of natural compounds for photoprotection. Photoprotection by dietary means has garnered much interest in both the public and research communities. Plant constituents, such as carotenoids, flavonoids, b-carotene, and lycopene, and other natural compounds, such as caffeine, are involved in protection against oxidative damage in plants that is induced by excess light and can contribute to the prevention of UV radiation damage in humans. These micronutrients, when ingested, are distributed to light-exposed tissues, such as the skin, where they provide systemic photoprotection. Systemic endogenous compounds have been demonstrated to be important adjunctive tools against UV effects. In vitro and in vivo animal and human studies suggest that many natural compounds are photoprotective in nature and may be valuable pharmacologic agents in the prevention of solar UVB light–induced skin disorders, including photoaging and melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. More clinical trials in humans are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of these promising compounds.