 "Explained: Can sunscreen pills protect you?")
Sunscreen has become an absolute necessity for many people today.
But it looks like the everyday essential has got an upgrade.
Sunscreen pills that filter UV rays on the outside are the newest trend in skincare.
But are these pills really worth it?
Let’s take a look.
What are sunscreen pills?
According to the Indian Express, which quoted Dr (Major) Gurveen Waraich Garekar of Garekars MD Dermatology Clinic, the sunscreen pills contain leucotomos polypodium, this Camellia inesis leaf extract appears to have some potential for providing some degree of sun protection.
Antioxidants such as beta carotene, lycopene, vitamin C, and vitamin E “act at a cellular level to prevent the DNA damage of a cell due to UV rays.”
Vogue India quoted Dr Erika Aguilar, the primary benefit of oral chemo-photo protectors over topical sunscreens or even topical chemo-photo protectors is their systemic action, which enables them to offer consistent protection over the skin.
She continues by mentioning fresh research that explains the advantages of several natural origin options.
She says that an extract from Polypodium leucotomos has a pertinent chemo-photoprotective profile.
Can they truly protect you?
“Sunscreen pills, despite their name, do not work in the same way as topical sunscreens,” Dr DM Mahajan, senior consultant, dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, told Financial Express.
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More Shorts“These oral supplements typically contain antioxidants like polypodium leucotomos extract, beta-carotene, or astaxanthin. The primary mechanism of action is believed to be through enhancing the body’s natural defence against UV-induced damage.”
By potentially lowering oxidative stress and inflammation in skin cells, these antioxidants may aid in the neutralisation of free radicals produced by UV radiation. Melanin, the skin’s natural pigment that offers some UV protection, may also be produced more readily by some substances.
He adds, “However, it is crucial to note that these pills are not FDA-approved as sunscreens and should not be considered a replacement for topical sunscreen or other sun protection measures. The efficacy of these supplements in providing meaningful sun protection is still a subject of ongoing research and debate in the dermatological community.”
In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration said the so-called sunscreen pills were fake and that people should not fall for the scam.
“There’s no pill or capsule that can replace your sunscreen,” FDA commissioner Dr Scott Gottlieb said in a statement.
“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,” he said.
The group issued a warning to the manufacturers of Sunsafe Rx, Sunergetic, Advanced Skin Brightening Formula, and Solaricare to stop claiming to shield people from the sun’s rays.
Research on sunscreen pills’ efficacy in preventing melanomas is still ongoing.
What are the side effects?
Antioxidant-based sunscreen tablets can affect the skin and body in different ways.
Potential adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhoea, even though the drug is generally thought to be safe when used as prescribed.
Allergy reactions can happen to some people, especially when it comes to components made from plants.
Interactions with other drugs or supplements are also a possibility, which could reduce the effectiveness or absorption of those products.
In some circumstances, using high doses of various antioxidants over an extended time may unexpectedly enhance oxidative stress.
Photosensitivity is one of the less frequent skin-specific adverse effects that some people may experience.
It’s crucial to remember that these supplements could provide users with a false sense of security, which could increase their exposure to UV radiation and other hazards.
What’s more effective?
Oral sunscreen supplements are generally regarded as less safe and effective than physical barriers, such as mineral-based sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
To stop UV rays from invading the skin, these physical sunscreens function by covering the skin with a layer of protection that reflects and scatters the light.
They function instantly after application and provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Physical sunscreens are also better for delicate skin because they are less prone to irritate the skin than chemical sunscreens.
Dermatologists and experts advise using several strategies.
Indian Express recommends generously using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and reapplying it every two hours, or more frequently if you swim or perspire.
For further protection, use lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed caps.
Look for shade whenever you can, especially from 10 am until 4 pm during the peak of the sun.
With inputs from agencies
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