ABSTRACT
WHEN DO WE NEED PHOTOPROTECTION? Cosmetic dermatologists need no persuasion that the ultraviolet (UV) component of sunlight, which comprises approximately 5% of terrestrial solar radiation, is largely responsible for the deleterious effects on the skin that are associated with sun exposure. Ubiquitous acceptance of this belief has formed the basis of sun protection campaigns hosted by public health agencies in many countries populated principally by people with white skin, as well as the continued development and improvement of topical sunscreens.
