Subjective and objective assessment of color match of universal tinted sunscreens in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I-VI.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Tinted sunscreens not only shield against UV rays but also provide protection against visible light, as opposed to traditional sunscreens. Universal tinted sunscreens are marketed to complement all skin tones. OBJECTIVE: To assess color match and subject satisfaction for 7 universal tinted sunscreens across various price ranges in all Fitzpatrick skin phototypes (SPT). METHODS: Products A-G were applied at concentrations of 1 and 2 mg/cm2 on the dorsal arms of 30 subjects spanning SPT I-VI. Photography, colorimetry, and subject and investigator surveys were utilized to determine color match. RESULTS: Using colorimetry analysis at the recommended 2 mg/cm2 concentration, two of seven products were identified as suitable matches for SPT I-II, while six out of seven were determined to be a good match for SPT III-IV. However, only one product was found to be a good match for SPT V-VI at the recommended concentration according to colorimetry results. CONCLUSION: Universal tinted sunscreens do not provide an adequate color match for all skin phototypes, especially for individuals with very fair or very dark skin tones.