Premium
Measurement of protection afforded by ultraviolet‐absorbing window film using an in vitro model of photodamage
Author(s) -
Bernstein Eric F.,
Schwartz Mark,
Viehmeyer Robert,
Arocena Marvin S.,
Sambuco Christopher P.,
Ksenzenko Sergey M.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
lasers in surgery and medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.888
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1096-9101
pISSN - 0196-8092
DOI - 10.1002/lsm.20329
Subject(s) - photoprotection , ultraviolet , photoaging , materials science , dermatology , irradiation , medicine , optoelectronics , chemistry , biochemistry , photosynthesis , physics , nuclear physics
Background and Objectives The effects of chronic sun damage including telangiectasias, solar lentigos, rhytides, enlarged pores, sagging skin, and pre‐cancerous and cancerous growths are among the most common presenting complaints in a dermatologist's office. These changes are often worse on the driver's side of the face, emphasizing the role of UVA exposure received while driving in producing these changes. This study was undertaken to measure the ability of car window glass alone and in combination with ultraviolet (UV)‐absorbing film to reduce UV‐damage as measured using an established in vitro model of photoprotection. Study Design Materials and Methods Using the 3T3 neutral red uptake photoprotection assay with solar simulating radiation (SSR) administered by a xenon arc solar simulator, we measured the photoprotection ability of auto glass, window film that filters UV radiation, and the combination of window film and auto glass. Results As measured by the 3T3 neutral red uptake photoprotection assay, auto glass reduced cell death from SSR by 29%, while window film reduced it 90%, and the combination of auto glass and film reduced cell death by 93%, when compared to unfiltered SSR. Conclusions Window film that filters UV radiation results in dramatic reductions in cytotoxicity when measured by the neutral red uptake photoprotection assay. Widespread use of window film provides an ever‐present barrier to ultraviolet A (UVA) exposure and could potentially reduce the detrimental effects of UVA, including photoaging, skin cancer, and ocular damage, such as cataracts. In addition, such film is essential for patients suffering from conditions sensitive to UV radiation, such as lupus erythematosis. Lasers Surg. Med. 38:337–342, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.