Oral sunscreen has intrigued and divided skincare enthusiasts and professionals.
But does it work?
Let’s dive into the science behind oral sunscreen to separate fact from fiction.
What is Oral Sunscreen?
Also known as “internal sunscreen” or “nutricosmetics,” oral sunscreen is a dietary supplement.
These sun supplements contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may boost the skin’s resilience to sun damage.
It doesn’t replace your bottle of topical sunscreen. Instead, it acts as an internal defense system.
Common Ingredients
Oral sunscreens aim to boost your skin’s defense against sun damage.
Here are some of the most common ones:
Plant Extracts
Oral sunscreens contain Polypodium leucotomos (PL), a natural extract from tropical fern leaves with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Research shows that taking PL orally helps prevent cell damage and supports DNA repair, reducing cancer risks and skin aging.
However, the extent of PL’s protective effects in real-world scenarios remains unclear, and more studies are needed to validate these findings.
Antioxidants
Renowned for their antioxidant properties, Vitamin C and E neutralize the effects of free radicals generated by UV exposure.
Free radicals harm skin cells, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and potentially skin cancer.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant found in algae and seafood.
It has been studied for its potential photoprotective effects, including UV radiation-induced skin aging and inflammation.
Potential Benefits of Oral Sunscreen
Here’s a breakdown of the potential benefits these supplements offer:
1. Antioxidant Protection
Targeting free radicals may help defend the skin against sunburn and UV damage.
By neutralizing free radicals, oral sunscreens may help:
- Reduce sunburn risk
- Minimize premature aging from sun damage
- Potentially offer some protection against skin cancer (research is ongoing)
Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants that may protect your skin. Check out our post to learn more- Unlock Pomegranate Benefits for Skin.
2. Photoprotection from Within
Photoprotection is the biochemical process that helps organisms cope with molecular damage caused by sunlight.
Oral sunscreen may offer the following photoprotection benefits:
- Reduce UV-induced DNA damage in skin cells
- Bolster the skin’s natural antioxidant defenses
- Help minimize inflammation caused by sun exposure
3. Skin Health Support
Carotenoids in oral sunscreens, such as beta-carotene and lycopene, may provide benefits beyond sun protection.
These antioxidants may contribute to skin health by:
- Promoting healthy cell function
- Supporting collagen production (important for skin structure and elasticity)
Oral sunscreen may counter the long-term effects of sun exposure.
Limitations of Oral Sunscreen
These supplements do not replace topical sunscreen.
Below are the limitations of oral sunscreen:
- No FDA regulation (products will vary in formulation and quality)
- Not a substitute for topical sunscreen (increases cost and steps of sun protection routine)
- Varied ingredients and responses (individuals will respond differently to oral sunscreen)
- Insufficient scientific evidence
Safety
Overall, these products are safe for adults who want to enhance their sun protection.
These products are not suitable for children.
Consult your healthcare provider before adding any dietary supplements to your wellness routine.
Does Oral Sunscreen Work?
Oral sunscreens can provide an extra layer of sun protection, but they shouldn’t be your only line of defense.
Always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, seek shade during peak sun hours, and cover up with protective clothing.
Dermatologist’s Recommendations
The American Academy of Dermatology has stated that oral supplements should not be a replacement for sunscreen or sun-protective clothing.
There is no scientific evidence that oral supplements can provide adequate sun protection.
Oral Sunscreen Products
Below are Heliocare products recommended by some dermatologists.
Discuss the addition of any dietary supplement with your healthcare provider.
Are you interested in innovative ways to improve your skin? Check out our blog post IV Therapy For Skin: A Quick Way To Nourish & Rejuvenate.
Takeaways
Oral sunscreen is still in its early stages and more research is needed.
As a dietitian who loves the sun, the prospect of effective oral skin protection is exciting!
Topical sunscreen remains the gold standard for sun protection.
If you take an oral sunscreen supplement, it should be used along with topical sunscreen.
Hungry For More?
Are you interested in more information on skin health?
Check out our Skin & Beauty Nutrition section of the blog.
Sign up for our Nutrition for Healthy Aging Newsletter and receive our latest content directly in your inbox!
*Please note this blog post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management. She has 20+ years of nutrition experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. Her passion is to provide evidence-based nutrition information that supports vitality and longevity!