Abstract: There is disclosed a topical composition comprising at least one organic and/or inorganic phosphor in a physiologically acceptable medium, wherein the phosphor(s) is present in an amount effective to convert electromagnetic radiation of an initial frequency to a different frequency. In one embodiment, the phosphors convert the initial radiation frequency, such as infrared or visible light, to a higher frequency, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In another embodiment, the phosphors convert the initial radiation from a higher frequency, such as UV radiation, to a lower frequency, such as infrared or visible light. Methods of treating keratinous material, such as the skin, hair, or lips, using the disclosed compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for communicating between a surface containing a rare-earth oxide phosphor, which emits a second wavelength photon when excited by a first wavelength photon, and an article mounted on a device, wherein the method includes exciting the phosphor with a source that emits a first wavelength photon to produce a second wavelength photon response in the surface; and detecting the second wavelength photon with a means in communication with the article, wherein the article is capable of emitting a signal based upon receipt of the second wavelength photon.

Abstract: A method for inducing a visible light response in a material comprising combining an up-conversion phosphor, which emits visible light wavelengths when stimulated by non-coherent infrared wavelengths, with the material and activating the phosphor with a source that emits non-coherent infrared wavelengths to produce a visible-light response in the material.