<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><!DOCTYPE article  PUBLIC "-//NLM//DTD Journal Publishing DTD v3.0 20080202//EN" "http://dtd.nlm.nih.gov/publishing/3.0/journalpublishing3.dtd"><article xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" dtd-version="3.0" xml:lang="en" article-type="research article"><front><journal-meta><journal-id journal-id-type="publisher-id">OPJ</journal-id><journal-title-group><journal-title>Optics and Photonics Journal</journal-title></journal-title-group><issn pub-type="epub">2160-8881</issn><publisher><publisher-name>Scientific Research Publishing</publisher-name></publisher></journal-meta><article-meta><article-id pub-id-type="doi">10.4236/opj.2023.138018</article-id><article-id pub-id-type="publisher-id">OPJ-127527</article-id><article-categories><subj-group subj-group-type="heading"><subject>Articles</subject></subj-group><subj-group subj-group-type="Discipline-v2"><subject>Chemistry&amp;Materials Science</subject><subject> Engineering</subject><subject> Physics&amp;Mathematics</subject></subj-group></article-categories><title-group><article-title>
 
 
  Photoprotective Ability of Colored Iron Oxides in Tinted Sunscreens against Ultraviolet, Visible Light and Near-Infrared Radiation
 
</article-title></title-group><contrib-group><contrib contrib-type="author" xlink:type="simple"><name name-style="western"><surname>Yohei</surname><given-names>Tanaka</given-names></name><xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff1"><sup>1</sup></xref><xref ref-type="corresp" rid="cor1"><sup>*</sup></xref></contrib><contrib contrib-type="author" xlink:type="simple"><name name-style="western"><surname>Richard</surname><given-names>Parker</given-names></name><xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff2"><sup>2</sup></xref></contrib><contrib contrib-type="author" xlink:type="simple"><name name-style="western"><surname>Amaryllis</surname><given-names>Aganahi</given-names></name><xref ref-type="aff" rid="aff2"><sup>2</sup></xref></contrib></contrib-group><aff id="aff1"><addr-line>Clinica Tanaka Plastic, Reconstructive Surgery and Anti-Aging Center, Matsumoto, Japan</addr-line></aff><aff id="aff2"><addr-line>RATIONALE, Kyneton, Victoria, Australia</addr-line></aff><pub-date pub-type="epub"><day>05</day><month>09</month><year>2023</year></pub-date><volume>13</volume><issue>08</issue><fpage>199</fpage><lpage>208</lpage><history><date date-type="received"><day>7,</day>	<month>August</month>	<year>2023</year></date><date date-type="rev-recd"><day>27,</day>	<month>August</month>	<year>2023</year>	</date><date date-type="accepted"><day>30,</day>	<month>August</month>	<year>2023</year></date></history><permissions><copyright-statement>&#169; Copyright  2014 by authors and Scientific Research Publishing Inc. </copyright-statement><copyright-year>2014</copyright-year><license><license-p>This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution International License (CC BY). http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/</license-p></license></permissions><abstract><p>
 
 
  Solar-induced skin damage continues to pose a problem to human health worldwide, despite the widespread recommendation and use of sunscreens. We have previously reported that solar visible light and near-infrared also contribute to skin damage and photoageing. Most commonly recommended sunscreens are only effective throughout the UV spectrum, offering no protection from visible light and near-infrared. To evaluate the enhanced solar-spectrum blocking ability of iron oxides, a double-beam spectrophotometer was used to optically measure the transmission spectra. The spectrophotometer deploys a unique, single monochromatic design to detect wavelength penetration in the range of 240 to 2600 nm. The sample without iron oxide (control) blocked over 80% of ultraviolet-C and ultraviolet-B but did not block ultraviolet-A, visible light, or near-infrared wavelengths. The samples with yellow, and red iron oxide blocked over 90% ultraviolet, but did not block visible light and near-infrared effectively. The sample with black iron oxide blocked visible light, and near-infrared effectively compared with other samples with yellow, blue, and red iron oxide. The sample with red and black iron oxides, and the sample with yellow, blue, red, and black iron oxides blocked ultraviolet through to near-infrared. It can be concluded that dark colored iron oxide combinations are effective at blocking from ultraviolet through to visible light and near-infrared radiation. The results of this study may also suggest that biological colour of human skin and subcutaneous tissues are conserved for comprehensive photoprotection.
 
</p></abstract><kwd-group><kwd>Anti-Photoageing</kwd><kwd> Photoimmunosuppression</kwd><kwd> Photoprotection</kwd><kwd> Sunscreen</kwd><kwd> Ultraviolet</kwd><kwd> Visible Light</kwd><kwd> Near-Infrared</kwd></kwd-group></article-meta></front><body><sec id="s1"><title>1. Introduction</title><p>Despite the considerable and growing evidence that visible light (VL) and near-infrared (NIR) are harmful to human skin, these wavelengths are not effectively blocked by photoprotective materials including sunscreens, eyewear, glass film treatments, umbrellas and wearable fibers [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] - [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref15">15</xref>] . VL has many documented deleterious effects on human skin and deeper tissues including hyperpigmentation, photodermatoses (solar urticaria, porphyrias, polymorphic light eruption etc.), erythema and inflammation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref16">16</xref>] .</p><p>NIR radiation is capable of penetrating skin and sclera, affecting deeper tissues that include muscles, lens and retina, resulting in varied and considerable biological effects [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref3">3</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref6">6</xref>] . Photoageing [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] - [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref7">7</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref11">11</xref>] , chronic vasodilation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref9">9</xref>] , skin sagging and ptosis [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref2">2</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref3">3</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] , photoimmunosuppression and photocarcinogenesis are all undesirable sequela related to VL and NIR exposure long term where innate biological photoprotection is inadequate [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] - [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref13">13</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref17">17</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref18">18</xref>] .</p><p>In consideration of the facts that human skin is exposed to biologically active doses of electromagnetic spectral radiation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] - [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref13">13</xref>] daily, and that most solar filtering materials do not attenuate VL and NIR, developing and deploying photoprotective materials against VL and NIR should be considered a high priority [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref1">1</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref11">11</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref14">14</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref15">15</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref19">19</xref>] . Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide (TiO<sub>2</sub>) and zinc oxide (ZnO) help provide UV protection but provide limited protection against VL and NIR [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref20">20</xref>] . Topical formulations containing metallic oxides can provide additional photoprotection beyond UV to include VL and NIR [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref15">15</xref>] . For example, a recent study involving broad-spectrum sunscreens containing iron oxides improved melasma lesions and relapses [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref21">21</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref22">22</xref>] . Iron oxides including red iron oxide (Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>), yellow iron oxide (Fe(OH)<sub>3</sub>/FeOOH), and black iron oxide (Fe<sub>3</sub>O<sub>4</sub>) effectively block high energy VL and NIR [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref23">23</xref>] .</p><p>To clarify the complete solar-spectrum blocking ability of colored iron oxides contained in tinted sunscreens, a double-beam spectrophotometer was used to optically measure the transmission spectra from 240 to 2600 nm.</p></sec><sec id="s2"><title>2. Materials and Methods</title><sec id="s2_1"><title>2.1. Sunscreen Evaluated</title><p>Seven variations of colored iron oxides contained in tinted sunscreens and control sample with no iron oxide were used in this study (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table1">Table 1</xref> and <xref ref-type="fig" rid="fig1">Figure 1</xref>).</p></sec><sec id="s2_2"><title>2.2. Optical Evaluation of Sunscreens Using Transmission Spectra</title><p>Seven variations of colored iron oxides contained in tinted sunscreens and control sample wit A double-beam spectrophotometer covering wavelengths from 240 to 2600 nm was used to optically measure the transmission spectra. Each sunscreen sample was embedded in sapphire cuvette with a thickness of 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm, simulating practical use of human skin. The light emitted was detected by a photomultiplier tube.</p><table-wrap id="table1" ><label><xref ref-type="table" rid="table1">Table 1</xref></label><caption><title> Characteristics of colored iron oxides</title></caption><table><tbody><thead><tr><th align="center" valign="middle" >1) A control sample with no iron oxide</th></tr></thead><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >2) Modified sample with only yellow iron oxide</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >3) Modified sample with only blue iron oxide</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >4) Modified sample with only red iron oxide</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >5) Modified sample with only black iron oxide</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >6) Modified sample with yellow and blue iron oxides</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >7) Modified sample with red and black iron oxides</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >8) Modified sample with yellow, blue, red, and black, iron oxides</td></tr></tbody></table></table-wrap></sec></sec><sec id="s3"><title>3. Results</title><p>Blocking abilities against UV-C (100 - 280 nm), UV-B (280 - 315 nm), UV-A (315 - 400 nm), VL (400 - 760 nm), and NIR of each sunscreen sample are shown in <xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref> (0.1 mm width) and <xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref> (0.2 mm width). The results of the transmission spectra of sunscreens are shown in <xref ref-type="fig" rid="fig2">Figure 2</xref>.</p><p>Samples containing iron oxide with a thickness of 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm blocked 82.5% - 99.1% of UV-C, 90.1% - 99.1% of UV-B, 67.0% - 99.9% of UV-A, 39.5% - 99.9% of VL, and 18.1% - 98.4% of NIR (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref> and <xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>). The sample without iron oxide blocked UV-C and UV-B over 80%, but did not block UV-A, VL, and NIR sufficiently (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref> and <xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>). The samples with yellow, and red iron oxide blocked UV over 90%, but did not block VL and NIR sufficiently (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref> and <xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>). The sample with black iron oxide blocked VL, and NIR effectively, compared with other samples with yellow, blue, and red iron oxide (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref> and <xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>). The sample with red and black iron oxides, and the sample with yellow, blue, red, and black iron oxides (0.1 mm width) blocked almost over 80% of UV through to NIR (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref>). The sample with red and black iron oxides (0.2 mm width) blocked almost over 90% of UV through to NIR (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>). The sample with yellow, blue, red, and black iron oxides (0.2 mm width) blocked almost over 95% of UV through to NIR effectively (<xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref>).</p><p>Transmission spectra showed that yellow, blue, red, black colored iron oxide characteristically blocked 280 - 500 nm, 550 - 600 nm, 280 - 650 nm, 650 - 2600 nm, respectively (<xref ref-type="fig" rid="fig2">Figure 2</xref>).</p><table-wrap id="table2" ><label><xref ref-type="table" rid="table2">Table 2</xref></label><caption><title> Blocking abilities of colored iron oxides (0.1 mm width)</title></caption><table><tbody><thead><tr><th align="center" valign="middle"  rowspan="2"  ></th><th align="center" valign="middle"  colspan="5"  >Blocking abilities</th></tr></thead><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-C</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-B</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-A</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >VL</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >NIR</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample without iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >83.8% - 91.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >91.3% - 91.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >62.6% - 97.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >37.2% - 60.4%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >19.5% - 46.4%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >91.7% - 95.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >95.4% - 96.0%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >95.4% - 99.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >50.2% - 99.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >21.8% - 50.1%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with blue iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >82.5% - 90.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >90.1% - 91.0%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >67.0% - 96.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >39.5% - 79.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >21.3% - 48.4%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with red iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >94.4% - 97.2%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.1% - 97.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.1% - 99.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >65.5% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >27.7% - 65.4%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with black iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >88.2% - 94.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >94.0% - 94.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >81.9% - 98.3%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >70.5% - 81.0%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >64.1% - 76.8%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow and blue iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >89.0% - 94.4%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.8% - 94.4%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.9% - 99.1%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >44.9% - 99.1%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >18.1% - 44.8%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with red and black iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.9% - 99.1%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >98.9% - 99.1%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >98.9% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >90.6% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >78.2% - 90.6%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow, blue, red, black iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.6% - 96.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.3% - 96.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.4% - 99.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >91.0% - 99.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >79.9% - 91.0%</td></tr></tbody></table></table-wrap><table-wrap id="table3" ><label><xref ref-type="table" rid="table3">Table 3</xref></label><caption><title> Blocking abilities of colored iron oxides (0.2 mm width)</title></caption><table><tbody><thead><tr><th align="center" valign="middle"  rowspan="2"  ></th><th align="center" valign="middle"  colspan="5"  >Blocking abilities</th></tr></thead><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-C</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-B</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >UV-A</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >VL</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >NIR</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample without iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >80.9% - 90.3%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >89.4% - 90.3%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >81.6% - 98.3%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >49.5% - 79.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >28.0% - 66.6%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >90.6% - 95.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >95.1% - 95.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >95.1% - 99.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >62.6% - 99.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >31.6% - 67.1%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with blue iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >86.9% - 93.0%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >92.6% - 93.4%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >85.8% - 98.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >51.1% - 93.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >29.9% - 67.4%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with red iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >92.7% - 96.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.5% - 96.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.6% - 99.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >77.2% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >36.9% - 77.1%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with black iron oxide</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >87.5% - 93.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.6% - 93.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.7% - 98.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >86.1% - 94.0%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >80.1% - 90.7%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow and blue iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >93.2% - 96.6%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.3% - 96.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.5% - 99.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >61.3% - 99.5%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >34.2% - 68.5%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with red and black iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >92.9% - 96.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.6% - 96.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >96.5% - 99.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.1% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >91.1% - 97.1%</td></tr><tr><td align="center" valign="middle" >Sample with yellow, blue, red, black iron oxides</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >95.3% - 97.7%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.3% - 97.8%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >97.5% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >98.4% - 99.9%</td><td align="center" valign="middle" >94.5% - 98.4%</td></tr></tbody></table></table-wrap></sec><sec id="s4"><title>4. Discussion</title><p>Over 90% of incident solar radiation affecting the Earth consists of VL and NIR, and intensive or ongoing exposure to VL and NIR, when combined with UV, also contributes to photoageing, skin diseases, and skin cancers [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref11">11</xref>] . VL alone or in combination with NIR generates reactive oxygen species, increases collagen degradation, and leads to DNA damage [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref14">14</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref24">24</xref>] . It must be noted that the global sunscreen industry has not embraced effective formulation technologies designed to filter VL and NIR [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref11">11</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref13">13</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref15">15</xref>] . As the biological effects of incident solar energy (UV, VL and NIR) are significant and due to the lack of sunscreens offering protection beyond UV, novel photoprotection from UV through to NIR is essential for preventing photoageing [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref11">11</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref13">13</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref15">15</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref19">19</xref>] .</p><p>Iron oxide, titanium oxide and various pigments provide protection against VL-induced pigmentaiton [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref25">25</xref>] , for example, in one study, yellow iron oxide reduced VL-induced pigmentaiton [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref26">26</xref>] . Daily application of tinted sunscreens reduced the appearance of cutaneous hyperchromias [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref19">19</xref>] , and tinted mineral sunscreens were proven more beneficial than nontinted sunscreens, since they protect against UV and VL [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref23">23</xref>] .</p><p>In our prior study, we demonstrated that commercially available sunscreens blocked UV-C and UV-B sufficiently (approximately 99%). However, 8 out of 9 samples were not able to block over 99% of UVA, and did not effectively block VL and NIR, and this could potentially explain increasing levels solar-induced skin damage being reported despite the widespread prevalence of sunscreen usage [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref13">13</xref>] .</p><p>In this study, to investigate the photoprotective ability of colored iron oxides contained in tinted sunscreens, a double-beam spectrophotometer was used to optically measure the transmission spectra.</p><p>All of samples containing iron oxide blocked over approximately 80% of UV-C and over 90% of UV-B. Regarding UV-A, all of samples containing iron oxide except blue iron oxide blocked over approximately 80% of UV-A. None of the single iron oxide color samples, with the exception of iron oxide red, effectively blocked VL. Similarly, none of the single iron oxide color samples, with the exception of iron oxide black effectively blocked NIR.</p><p>Combination color iron oxides samples containing red and black, and also yellow, blue, red, and black (0.1 mm, 0.2 mm width) blocked almost over 80%, 90% of UV through to NIR, respectively. Interestingly, with a thickness of 0.1 mm significant difference was not observed between combinations with red and black, and with yellow, blue, red, and black. In thicker layer samples (0.2 mm), significant differences were observed between these dark color combinations.</p><p>Importantly, each iron oxide has a different electromagnetic spectral attenuation profile. Transmission spectra showed that yellow, blue, red, black colored iron oxide characteristically blocked 280 - 500 nm, 550 - 600 nm, 280 - 650 nm, 650 - 2600 nm, respectively.</p><p>The combination of UV filters and pigments can protect the skin from solar radiation and reduce skin hyperpigmentation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref19">19</xref>] . In our prior study, we demonstrated slight UV attenuation by saline imitating perspiration and by oil imitating sebum on the skin and almost complete impedance by human blood and skin structures [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] . Epidermal thickness and melanization are important protective mechanisms for UV-C and UV-B, whereas the attenuation of UV-A is primarily via melanin [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref27">27</xref>] . These results suggest that perspiration and/or sebum on the skin alone cannot sufficiently block most wavelengths of UV. However, human skin itself can mitigate UV as demonstrated in our study demonstrating that very thin skin (with a thicknesses of 0.25 mm) blocked over 99% of all UV wavelengths tested [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] . This is notable since the thinnest location of human skin regularly exposed to the sun is the eyelid (thickness, ≥0.5 mm).</p><p>VL was almost completely blocked by human skin, blood, adipose tissue, and muscle [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] . Wavelengths below 650 nm are absorbed by hemoglobin in the skin, which is analogous to the results seen with red iron oxide in this study, while wavelengths below 1100 nm are absorbed by melanin [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref28">28</xref>] .</p><p>NIR was also only slightly attenuated by saline and lipids, and blocked (&gt;70%) by skin, blood, adipose tissue, and muscle. NIR wavelengths between 1400 and 1500 nm are absorbed by hemoglobin and water in the skin, while wavelengths above 1850 nm are absorbed by water therein [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref28">28</xref>] . Absorption peaks in water transmission spectra are related to the O-H bond in water molecules [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref29">29</xref>] , with the NIR spectrum of biological materials basically attributable to overtones and combinations of O-H, C-H, and N-H bond stretching [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref30">30</xref>] . The various bonds that form a bioplastic matrix, O-H, C-O absorb infrared radiation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref31">31</xref>] . Since water and fatty acids are the major components of skin and consist of O-H and C-H intramolecular bonds, these molecules are the major NIR-absorbing materials in soft tissues [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref29">29</xref>] . Thin skin likely allows deeper penetration of UV, VL, and NIR, allowing deeper tissue damage as opposed to thicker skin [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] .</p><p>UV, VL, and NIR will induce vasodilation to protect subcutaneous tissues, and for fair skin blood also acts an effective sunscreen. Rosacea can be induced by NIR exposure and is more common in Caucasians and fair-skinned populations [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref32">32</xref>] . Degeneration of myoglobin and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells induced by NIR results in sustained vasodilation [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref9">9</xref>] , which protects against NIR exposure by increasing water and hemoglobin retention [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref9">9</xref>] . The blocking ability of adipose tissue was much higher than those of lipids, even though both contain fatty acids. However, adipose tissue also contains blood vessels, which may play an important role in enhancing the blocking ability of this tissue [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref4">4</xref>] .</p><p>Fair skin tends to wrinkle and sag earlier in life [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref33">33</xref>] [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref34">34</xref>] , and characteristic age-related skin changes occur at a more accelerated rate in fair skin people [<xref ref-type="bibr" rid="scirp.127527-ref35">35</xref>] . Dark skin individuals will photoage slower compared to fair skinned people. These results reinforce that our biological skin colour and colour of subcutaneous tissues are conserved for comprehensive photoprotection.</p><p>It is theorized that these photoprotective effects of these endogenous biological pigments can be approximated by red, yellow, blue and black iron oxides. Since samples evaluated in this study with a thickness of 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm appear to be quite thick compared with consumer application dosage of sunscreens, and to be very dark for consumer with fair skin, further investigation and invention are required to achieve comprehensive and cosmetically elegant photoprotection.</p><p>It should be noted that this was a preliminary study based on a relatively small number of colored iron oxide combinations. Further studies are needed in larger numbers, including various types and concentrations of metals and ingredients for sunscreens and in investigation of biological effects of VL and NIR.</p></sec><sec id="s5"><title>5. Conclusion</title><p>Dark colored iron oxide combinations are effective at blocking UV, VL and NIR radiation. The results of this study reinforce that our biological colour of the skin and subcutaneous tissues are conserved for comprehensive photoprotection, and that while current sunscreens provide adequate UV protection, further development should continue to extend sunscreen photoprotection to include VL and NIR for comprehensive skin protection from solar damage.</p></sec><sec id="s6"><title>Disclosure</title><p>The authors disclose that this study was entirely funded by RATIONALE Skincare Pty Ltd, Victoria, Australia.</p></sec><sec id="s7"><title>Conflicts of Interest</title><p>The authors declare no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this paper.</p></sec><sec id="s8"><title>Cite this paper</title><p>Tanaka, Y., Parker, R. and Aganahi, A. (2023) Photoprotective Ability of Colored Iron Oxides in Tinted Sunscreens against Ultraviolet, Visible Light and Near-Infrared Radiation. Optics and Photonics Journal, 13, 199-208. https://doi.org/10.4236/opj.2023.138018</p></sec></body><back><ref-list><title>References</title><ref id="scirp.127527-ref1"><label>1</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. and Gale, L. (2013) Beneficial Applications and Deleterious Effects of Near-Infrared from Biological and Medical Perspectives. Optics and Photonics Journal, 3, 31-39. https://doi.org/10.4236/opj.2013.34A006</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref2"><label>2</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. and Gale, L. (2013) The Necessity of Near-Infrared Protection. Surgery: Current Research, 3, 150.</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref3"><label>3</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. and Gale, L. (2015) Protection from Near-Infrared to Prevent Skin Damage. Optics and Photonics Journal, 5, 113-118. https://doi.org/10.4236/opj.2015.54010</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref4"><label>4</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. Motomura, H. and Jinno, M. (2016) Biological Defences against Ultra-Violet, Visible Light, and Near-Infrared Exposure. Optics and Photonics Journal, 6, 8-14. https://doi.org/10.4236/opj.2016.61002</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref5"><label>5</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. (2012) Impact of Near-Infrared in Dermatology. Review. World Journal of Dermatology, 1, 30-37. https://doi.org/10.5314/wjd.v1.i3.30</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref6"><label>6</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. and Nakayama, J. (2016) Upregulated Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression Following Near-Infrared Irradiation Simulating Solar Radiation in a Three-Dimensional Reconstructed Human Corneal Epithelial Tissue Culture Model. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 11, 1027-1033. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S111530</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref7"><label>7</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. (2017) The Necessity of Solar Near-Infrared Protection Shown through Gene Expression Changes. Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 58, 91.</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref8"><label>8</label><mixed-citation publication-type="book" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. and Matsuo, K. (2011) Non-Thermal Effects of Near-Infrared Irradiation on Melanoma. In: Tanaka, Y., Ed., Breakthroughs in Melanoma Research, InTech, Rijeka, 597-628. https://doi.org/10.5772/38663http://www.intechopen.com/books/breakthroughs-in-melanoma-research</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref9"><label>9</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y., Matsuo, K. and Yuzuriha, S. (2011) Near-Infrared Irradiation Non- Thermally Induces Long-Lasting Vasodilation by Causing Apoptosis of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. ePlasty, 11, e22. http://www.eplasty.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=541&amp;catid=172:volume-11-eplasty-2011</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref10"><label>10</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y., Matsuo, K. and Yuzuriha, S. (2010) Long-Lasting Muscle Thinning Induced by Infrared Irradiation Specialized with Wavelength and Contact Cooling: A Preliminary Report. ePlasty, 10, e40. http://www.eplasty.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=453&amp;catid=171:volume-10-eplasty-2010</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref11"><label>11</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. (2019) Long-Term Objective Assessments of Skin Rejuvenation Using Solar Protection and Solar Repair Shown through Digital Facial Surface Analysis and Three-Dimensional Volumetric Assessment. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 12, 553-561. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S218176</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref12"><label>12</label><mixed-citation publication-type="journal" xlink:type="simple"><name name-style="western"><surname>Tanaka</surname><given-names> Y. </given-names></name>,<etal>et al</etal>. (<year>2020</year>)<article-title>Three-Dimensional Quantification of Skin Surface Displacement Following Skin Rejuvenation Using Solar Protection and Solar Repair</article-title><source> The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology</source><volume> 13</volume>,<fpage> 47</fpage>-<lpage>50</lpage>.<pub-id pub-id-type="doi"></pub-id></mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref13"><label>13</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. (2023) Photoprotective Ability of Sunscreens against Ultraviolet, Visible Light and Near-Infrared Radiation. Optics and Photonics Journal, 13, 140-146. https://doi.org/10.4236/opj.2023.136012</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref14"><label>14</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Liebel, F., Kaur, S., Ruvolo, E., Kollias, N. and Southall, M.D. (2012) Irradiation of Skin with Visible Light Induces Reactive Oxygen Species and Matrix-Degrading Enzymes. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 132, 1901-1907. https://doi.org/10.1038/jid.2011.476</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref15"><label>15</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Dumbuya, H., Grimes, P.E., Lynch, S., Ji, K., Brahmachary, M., Zheng, Q., et al. (2020) Impact of Iron-Oxide Containing Formulations against Visible Light-In-duced Skin Pigmentation in Skin of Color Individuals. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 19, 712-717. https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.2020.5032</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref16"><label>16</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Austin, E., Amaris, N., Nguyen, G., Kohli, I., Hamzavi, I., Lim, H.W., et al. (2021) Visible Light Part I. Properties and Cutaneous Effects of Visible Light. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 84, 1219-1231. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2021.02.048</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref17"><label>17</label><mixed-citation publication-type="book" xlink:type="simple">Tanaka, Y. (2017) Preface. In: Tanaka, Y., Ed., Photomedicine: Advances in Clinical Practice, InTech, Rijeka. https://www.intechopen.com/books/photomedicine-advances-in-clinical-practice</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref18"><label>18</label><mixed-citation publication-type="book" xlink:type="simple">Calderhead, G. and Tanaka, Y. (2017) Photobiological Basics and Clinical Indications of Phototherapy for Skin Rejuvenation. In: Tanaka, Y., Ed., Photomedicine: Advances in Clinical Practice, InTech, Rijeka, 215-252. https://www.intechopen.com/books/photomedicine-advances-in-clinical-practice/photobiological-basics-and-clinical-indications-of-phototherapy-for-skin-rejuvenation https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.68723</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref19"><label>19</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Martini, A.P.M. and Maia Campos, P.M.B.G. (2018) Influence of Visible Light on Cutaneous Hyperchromias: Clinical Efficacy of Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &amp; Photomedicine, 34, 241-248. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12377</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref20"><label>20</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Smijs, T.G. and Pavel, S. (2011) Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Sunscreens: Focus on Their Safety and Effectiveness. Nanotechnology, Science and Applications, 4, 95-112. https://doi.org/10.2147/NSA.S19419</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref21"><label>21</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Castanedo-Cazares, J.P., Hernandez-Blanco, D., Carlos-Ortega, B., Fuentes-Ahumada, C., and Torres-Alvarez, B. (2014) Near-Visible Light and UV Photoprotection in the Treatment of Melasma: A Double-Blind Randomized Trial. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &amp; Photomedicine, 30, 35-42. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12086</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref22"><label>22</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Boukari, F., Jourdan, E., Fontas, E., Montaudie, H., Castela, E., Lacour, J.P., et al. (2015) Prevention of Melasma Relapses with Sunscreen Combining Protection against UV and Short Wavelengths of Visible Light: A Prospective Randomized Comparative Trial. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 72, 189-190.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2014.08.023</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref23"><label>23</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Bernstein, E.F., Sarkas, H.W. and Boland, P. (2021) Iron Oxides in Novel Skin Care Formulations Attenuate Blue Light for Enhanced Protection against Skin Damage. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20, 532-537. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13803</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref24"><label>24</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Cho, S., Lee, M.J., Kim, M.S., Lee, S., Kim, Y.K., Lee, D.H., et al. (2008) Infrared Plus Visible Light and Heat from Natural Sunlight Participate in the Expression of MMPs and Type I Procollagen as well as Infiltration of Inflammatory Cell in Human Skin in Vivo. Journal of Dermatological Science, 50, 123-133. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdermsci.2007.11.009</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref25"><label>25</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Duteil, L., Esdaille, J., Maubert, Y., Cathelineau, A.C., Bouloc, A., Queille-Roussel, C., et al. (2017) A Method to Assess the Protective Efficacy of Sunscreens against Visible Light-Induced Pigmentation. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &amp; Photomedicine, 33, 260-266. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12325</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref26"><label>26</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Ruvolo, E., Fair, M., Hutson, A. and Liebel, F. (2018) Photoprotection against Visible Light Induced Pigmentation. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 40, 589-595. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12502</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref27"><label>27</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Anderson, R.R. and Parrish, J.A. (1981) The Optics of Human Skin. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 77, 13-19. https://doi.org/10.1111/1523-1747.ep12479191</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref28"><label>28</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Kelleher, D.K., Thews, O., Rzeznik, J., Scherz, A., Salomon, Y. and Vaupel, P. (1999) Hot Topic. Water-Filtered Infrared-A Radiation: A Novel Technique for Localized Hyperthermia in Combination with Bacteriochlorophyll-Based Photodynamic Therapy. International Journal of Hyperthermia, 15, 467-474. https://doi.org/10.1080/026567399285468</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref29"><label>29</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tsai, C.H., Chen, J.C. and Wang, W.J. (2001) Near-Infrared Absorption Property of Biological Soft Tissue Constituents. Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering, 21, 7-14.</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref30"><label>30</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Weyer, L.G. (1985) Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of Organic Substances. Applied Spectroscopy Reviews, 21, 1-43. https://doi.org/10.1080/05704928508060427</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref31"><label>31</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Nakavoua, A., Ouenadio, E., Nkoua-Oussamo, P. and Verney, V. (2022) Effects of Light Radiation Absorption on the Resistance of Sweet Potato Starch-Based Bioplastics. Journal of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, 10, 44-52. https://doi.org/10.4236/msce.2022.102004</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref32"><label>32</label><mixed-citation publication-type="journal" xlink:type="simple"><name name-style="western"><surname>Berg</surname><given-names> M. </given-names></name>,<etal>et al</etal>. (<year>1989</year>)<article-title>Epidemiological Studies of Influence of Sunlight on the Skin</article-title><source> Photodermatology</source><volume> 6</volume>,<fpage> 80</fpage>-<lpage>84</lpage>.<pub-id pub-id-type="doi"></pub-id></mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref33"><label>33</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Rawlings, A.V. (2006) Ethnic Skin Types: Are There Differences in Skin Structure and Function? Review Article. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 28, 79-93. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-2494.2006.00302.x</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref34"><label>34</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Tsukahara, T., Fujimura, T., Yoshida, Y., Kitahara, T., Hotta, M., Moriwaki, S., et al. (2004) Comparison of Age-Related Changes in Wrinkling and Sagging of the Skin in Caucasian Females and in Japanese Females. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 26, 314. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-2494.2004.00245_5.x</mixed-citation></ref><ref id="scirp.127527-ref35"><label>35</label><mixed-citation publication-type="other" xlink:type="simple">Odunze, M., Rosenberg, D.S. and Few, J.W. (2008) Periorbital Aging and Ethnic Considerations: A Focus on the Lateral Canthal Complex. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 121, 1002-1008. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.prs.0000299381.40232.79</mixed-citation></ref></ref-list></back></article>