Sunscreen pills are popular right now. They promise to protect you from the sun without the mess of lotions. Imagine taking a pill and not worrying about sunburn. Sounds great, right? But before you throw away your sunscreen, let’s see if these pills really work.
The Rise of Sunscreen Pills
Sunscreen pills have emerged as a novel approach to sun protection, promising convenience, and ease of use. These pills, often containing antioxidants like polypodium leucotomos (PL), are marketed as a way to shield skin from UV radiation without the mess of traditional sunscreens.
The purported benefits of sunscreen pills stem from their antioxidant properties. Ingredients like beta carotene, lycopene, vitamin C, and vitamin E are said to work at the cellular level to mitigate UV damage.
Dr. (Major) Gurveen Waraich Garekar of Garekars M.D. Dermatology Clinic notes that these pills may offer limited sun protection by neutralizing free radicals and preventing DNA damage.
Dr Erika Aguilar noted in Vogue India that oral chemo-photo protectors offer systemic protection, providing consistent skin coverage. She highlighted new research showing that Polypodium leucotomos extract has significant chemo-photoprotective benefits.
However, despite the appeal of simply popping a pill for sun protection, experts emphasize that these pills should not replace topical sunscreens.
FDA’s Warning
A small study by Heliocare involving 40 participants suggested that a 240 mg dose of PL taken twice daily could reduce UV-induced skin damage. Yet, this study’s small scale and funding source raise concerns about the reliability of its findings.
Moreover, the Food and Drug Administration in 2018 warned that no pill can replace the effectiveness of topical sunscreens, calling them fake, and urging consumers not to rely solely on these supplements. The FDA’s stance is clear: “There’s no pill or capsule that can replace your sunscreen,” stated former FDA commissioner Dr Scott Gottlieb.
FDA has warned manufacturers like Sunsafe Rx, Sunergetic, Advanced Skin Brightening Formula, and Solaricare against making misleading claims about sun protection. Gottlieb said, “We’ve found products purporting to provide protection from the sun that aren’t delivering the advertised benefits. Instead, they’re misleading consumers, and putting people at risk.”
Read More: Breakfast Babble: Summers Are Such A Pain
Side Effects Of Sunscreen Pills
Dr. DM Mahajan, a senior consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, points out that while these pills might enhance the body’s natural defences, they are not FDA-approved as sunscreens, and should not be considered a standalone sun protection method.
Research on the long-term efficacy and safety of these supplements is still ongoing, and dermatologists caution against using them as a primary sun protection measure.
Sunscreen pills may cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea or upset stomach and can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Also, it is not widely usable as it is not recommended for children, pregnant ladies, and people already on medication.
These pills might interact with other medicines, potentially reducing their effectiveness. They can also cause photosensitivity, making the skin more prone to sunburn. While containing antioxidants, high doses could paradoxically increase oxidative stress.
Given the limitations and potential risks associated with sunscreen pills, experts recommend a comprehensive approach to sun protection. To be safe from the sun, the use of SPF 30 is recommended.
Those who swim or sweat a lot should reapply the sunscreen every two hours. Also, full-sleeved clothes are an added defence. Staying in the shade during the peak UV hours i.e. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is also advised.
While sunscreen pills offer an intriguing and convenient idea, they are not a replacement for traditional sun protection methods. These pills might provide some additional benefits, but they can’t replace the effectiveness of sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade.
For now, it’s best to use sunscreen pills as a supplement to your sun safety routine, not as a substitute. Always remember to apply your SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid peak sun hours to keep your skin safe and healthy. Enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
Image sources: Google Images
Feature Image designed by Saudamini Seth
Sources: Business Insider, First Post, Indian Express
This post is tagged under: Sun Protection, Sunscreen Pills, Skincare, Summer Safety, Health Tips, Dermatology, Skin Health, Sun Safety, Beauty Trends, UV Protection, Antioxidants, Healthy Skin, Wellness, Sunscreen, Stay Protected, Skin Care Routine, Beauty Tips
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