Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer.1,2 Sunscreens are widely used to reduce these risks, but some questions remain about their effectiveness and safety.

UVA and UVB — UV radiation capable of injuring the skin is classified based on wavelength as UVA1 (340-400 nm), UVA2 (320-340 nm), and UVB (290-320 nm). UVA, which makes up 95% of terrestrial UV radiation, penetrates the dermis and causes long-term damage. UVB, which is mostly absorbed in the epidermis, is largely responsible for the erythema of sunburn. Both UVA and UVB can cause photoaging and skin cancer. UVB is strongest at midday and is present primarily in late spring, summer, and early autumn in temperate climates. UVA is constant throughout the day and the year and, unlike UVB, is not filtered by clear glass.

SPF — Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is the ratio of...  Continue reading

The FDA has approved an intravaginal softgel insert formulation of estradiol (Imvexxy – TherapeuticsMD) for treatment of postmenopausal women with moderate to severe dyspareunia due to vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). Imvexxy is the second estradiol vaginal insert to be approved in the US; Vagifem, an intravaginal tablet formulation, was the first.1 Vagifem and Imvexxy are both available in inserts containing 10 mcg of estradiol; Imvexxy will also be available in a lower 4-mcg strength.

TREATMENT OF DYSPAREUNIA — VVA is caused by a loss of estrogen in postmenopausal women.2 Symptoms of VVA include vaginal dryness and irritation and dyspareunia.Continue reading