The cutaneous photobiologic effects of UVB and UVA are well known, which include erythema, tanning, and with chronic exposure, photocarcinogenesis. Visible light is now known also to have photobiologic effects on the skin, specifically intense and persistent pigmentation most noticeable in dark skinned individuals. This is of particular clinical relevance as pigmentary alterations on the skin such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma are more commonly observed in dark skinned individuals.
Comprehensive photoprotection consists of seeking shade, wearing photoprotective clothing, wide brimmed hat and sunglasses, and applying sunscreen to otherwise exposed sites. With diversity of skin phototypes of individuals globally, the concept of personalized photoprotection in terms of sunscreen usage has become an important component of photoprotection education of the public. Fair skinned individuals have high risk of sunburn and skin cancer development. Therefore, high SPF (50+) sunscreens with UVA-PF of >1/3 of labelled SPF should be recommended. Individuals with dark skinned have lower risk of sunburn or skin cancer, however, they are at a high risk to develop UV- and visible light-induced hyperpigmentation. SPF30+ with good UVA-PF (>2/3 labelled SPF) should be recommended. In addition, sunscreens that contain agents that block visible light (tinted, also known as colored sunscreens, or sunscreens that contain new filters that absorb in the visible light range) should also be recommended for these individuals.