In recent years, supplements promising to protect skin from the sun have flooded the market, offering an appealing alternative to the daily use of sunscreen. These so-called “photoprotective supplements” are marketed as a convenient way to shield the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are known to cause skin damage and increase cancer risk over time.
However, dermatologists warn against relying solely on these oral supplements to replace traditional sunscreen. As Dr. Asmi Berry, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist, puts it, “You still need to apply your SPF.”
Here’s what you need to know about these supplements and why they shouldn’t replace your sunscreen routine.
What Are Sunscreen Pills?
Sunscreen pills typically contain a blend of vitamins, minerals, carotenoids (pigments), and polyphenols (plant compounds). A common ingredient is Polypodium leucotomos (P. leucotomos), an extract from a fern native to Central and South America. In addition to this extract, the supplements may include nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) to help repair UV-related DNA damage, astaxanthin (an algae extract) to neutralize free radicals, and lycopene, which can enhance the skin’s natural UV defense.
However, these supplements fall under the category of dietary supplements, which means they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What Do These Supplements Really Do?
There is limited research on the effectiveness of sunscreen pills, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Dr. Berry points out that Polypodium leucotomos (PLE) has been the most studied ingredient in these supplements. It has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the skin from UV damage by neutralizing free radicals, a benefit not seen with topical sunscreens.
A 2015 study involving 20 participants who took 240 mg of oral PLE twice a day for 60 days showed that those who took PLE were less likely to experience sunburn compared to those who took a placebo. While promising, Dr. Berry cautions that many of the studies involving PLE have been small or conducted on animals and cell cultures, not humans.
“More research is needed to make any real claims about sun protection,” says Dr. Elizabeth K. Hale, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center. “We don’t yet have definitive answers about how much protection these oral supplements provide.”
What is clear, however, is that these supplements alone do not provide sufficient protection from UV radiation. Dr. Hale emphasizes that oral supplements should not be considered a standalone solution for sun protection.
The Risk of False Security
One of the biggest concerns surrounding sunscreen pills is the false sense of security they may give users. Dr. Berry warns that some people may believe they can skip sunscreen entirely if they take these supplements, which could lead to serious skin damage.
For this reason, many dermatologists avoid referring to these pills as “oral sunscreen” to prevent confusion.
If you choose to try a supplement, it’s important to continue using your regular sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for optimal protection.
Things to Consider
Before taking a photoprotective supplement, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to ensure you’re not sensitive to any of the ingredients. Dr. Rachel Nazarian, an assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai in New York City, advises that while these supplements are generally safe, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, allergic to ferns, or taking certain medications, particularly immune-modulating ones, should be cautious.
Also, remember that because these supplements are not FDA-approved, there’s no guarantee that they are effective, safe, or contain the ingredients listed on the label.
Ultimately, experts agree that sunscreen pills should be used in conjunction with traditional, topical sunscreen. Dr. Nazarian, who takes a daily PLE supplement herself, stresses the importance of applying sunscreen every day, regardless of whether you are taking supplements.
“Everyone should apply sunscreen every day,” Dr. Hale concludes, “no matter what supplements they’re taking.”
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