INHIBITION OF THE ERYTHEMA OF SUNBURN BY LARGE DOSES OF ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION

Abstract

Inhibition of erythema production by high doses of longer wavelength u.-v. radiation within the sunburn producing spectrum is described. Such inhibition is not accompanied by less, but by greater total damage to skin. The inhibition is explainable as a direct effect upon the superficial blood vessels, whereas the erythema itself depends chiefly upon the release of dilator substance by injured cells of the epidermis. The mechanism of the vascular responses involved is considered.