[Alpha-tocopherol inhibition of erythema in skin photosensitized by 8-methoxypsoralen].

Irradiation of the rabbit and human skin by near UV light (wave lengths greater than 320 nm) in the presence of 8-methoxypsoralen produced erythema, pigmentation and some changes in the mechanical and electric properties. All the photobiological effects mentioned were inhibited by alpha-tocopherol if it was applied before irradiation. When applied after exposure to irradiation alpha-tocopherol appeared to be ineffective.