Tinted Sunscreens: Consumer Preferences Based on Light, Medium, and Dark Skin Tones

Abstract

Visible light (VL) has been shown to increase tyrosinase activity and induce immediate erythema in light-skinned individuals and long-lasting pigmentation in dark-skinned individuals. Tinted sunscreens (TSs) formulated with iron oxides (IOs) and/or pigmentary titanium dioxide (PTD) provide functional and cosmetic benefits and are a safe, effective, and convenient way to protect against both UV and high-energy VL. We conducted an analysis of over-the-counter TSs with the objective of investigating the factors that influence consumer preference when choosing TS depending on underlying skin tone. Descriptive data for each product were collected from an online supplier that provides reviewer information. The top 10 most helpful reviews were analyzed and coded by a consensus qualitative coding scheme, which included positive and negative descriptors in 5 major categories. Most products provided only one color shade, and tone incompatibility was the most commonly cited negative feature, with the vast majority of these comments being from consumers of dark skin tones. Top recommended products corresponded with increased shade options, indicating the dearth of shade diversity in products to be a potential area of improvement in tinted sunscreen options.