Sunscreen is an essential element for protection against ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Studies confirm that the most determining factors for the real effectiveness of a sunscreen are the amount of product applied (71% impact) and the uniformity of application (21% impact). This contrasts with our obsession with the famous SPF (sun protection factor). Although this is what we pay most attention to when buying a sunscreen, SPF only impacts an 8% in the real protection against the UVR. However, the higher the SPF, the more the photoprotection.
Therefore, education about the use of the sunscreen and the monitoring of its compliance are as important as its provision.
With compliance figures hovering around 60%, adherence to topical treatments for dermatological conditions is poor. These figures worsen when the treatment is preventive and chronic. People with albinism have to apply the sunscreen throughout life, to avoid a possible cancer in a future in which no one knows if “I will be alive”. Let us remember that in many African communities tomorrow does not exist, the goal is to survive the moment.
For this reason, the provision of cosmetically pleasing formulations that people with albinism in Africa like to use is a key element in ensuring good compliance.
Compliance is the most important factor for optimal protection against ultraviolet radiation.
The sunscreen “UMOZI MAX” that Beyond Suncare has developed for people with albinism in Sub-Saharan Africa takes into account their sensory preferences. For three years the beneficiaries tried different formulas with high efficacy and safety, discarding the ones they liked the least to focus on the ones they found most enjoyable to apply.
We label the packaging in the local languages so that they can understand what is being applied. Unlike the trend in the West, in East Africa they love intense perfumes so in our formula we chose a soft floral perfume with low photosensitizing action.
UMOZI MAX has SPF 50+, high water resistance and broad spectrum (UVA and UVB coverage). Its formulation includes very safe ingredients, minimizing unwanted effects. We have chosen filters with large molecule size to prevent penetration into the deepest layers of the skin. UMOZI MAX does not include controversial sunscreen filters in its formulation, the ingredients in its composition have not reported photosensitizing properties nor do they have effects on the endocrine system.
The preservative used in the formulation is environmentally friendly of natural origin.
Following the same line, the containers are recycled. In our model and as is already the case in Tanzania, people with albinism have to take the empty containers to the clinics so that they can be given new containers. This is done with a threefold objective: at the same time as promoting care for the environment, assessing compliance with treatment and, finally, encouraging responsibility and self-care measures among users.
The formula of our sunscreen combines high efficiency and safety, it has been adapted to the preferences of users and can be manufactured locally in simple facilities , giving work to people with albinism.
Beyond Suncare Management
Imágenes: @apalaciosrubio
