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We have tested the mutagenicity of a UV-B sunscreen ingredient called Padimate-O or octyl dimethyl PABA, which, chemically speaking, is identical to an industrial chemical that generates free radicals when illuminated. It is harmless in the dark but mutagenic in sunlight, attacking DNA directly. A commercial sunscreen containing Padimate-O behaves in the same way. UV-A in sunlight also excites Padimate-O, although less than UV-B. Some related compounds, including a known carcinogen, behave similarly. As mutagens may be carcinogenic, our results suggest that some sunscreens could, while preventing sunburn, contribute to sunlight-related cancers.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/0014-5793(93)80141-g

Type

Journal article

Journal

FEBS Lett

Publication Date

21/06/1993

Volume

324

Pages

309 - 313

Keywords

4-Aminobenzoic Acid, Cell Division, Mutagenicity Tests, Mutagens, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Sunscreening Agents, Time Factors, Ultraviolet Rays, para-Aminobenzoates