Prevention of photosensitivity with action spectrum adjusted protection for erythropoietic protoporphyria

Erythropoietic protoporphyria is a genetic disease characterized by sensitivity to sunlight caused by the accumulation of protoporphyrin IX. Photoprotection against ultraviolet A and visible light is necessary for erythropoietic porphyria patients because the absorption spectrum of protoporphyrin IX lies in both ultraviolet A and visible light region. We developed a novel index, in vitro porphyrin protection factor, based on the protoporphyrin IX absorbance spectrum. We also selected appropriate photoprotective products designed according to protoporphyrin IX absorbance. The porphyrin protection factors of a combination of make-up base with a powder as well as with a liquid foundation were significantly higher than those of a conventional sunscreen product, even at a small application dose. An in-use test carried out for 6 months showed that the efficacy of these products was 78.3%, and no adverse reactions were observed. Male subjects preferred liquid foundation, whereas all female subjects used powder foundation. The preference of the subjects could lead to the long-term use of the tested products. In conclusion, this study provided a new approach to improve photoprotection in erythropoietic protoporphyria patients.