The Sun Protective Effect of Melatonin

The aim of this study is to investigate the sun protective effect of melatonin, when used as a cream applied before sun exposure. Sun exposure induces erythema as indication of an inflammatory reaction in the skin. It is proven that the amount of free radicals in the skin are increased by UV exposure. Furthermore, it is known that melatonin is a potent antioxidant. It is hypothesized that melatonin can be protective against the UV induced release of free radicals by acting as a radical scavenger and thereby protect against UV-induced cellular damage.