Sunscreen pills are the newest fad in the skincare market. Should you use them?

The science on the inside

Current sunscreen pills often contain ingredients like polypodium leucotomos, a Central American fern extract with some antioxidant properties, as highlighted by Dr (Major) Gurveen Waraich Garekar of Garekars M.D. Dermatology Clinic. These include:

• Polypodium Leucotomos: This extract shows promise in offering some limited sun protection benefits.
• Beta Carotene, Lycopene, Vitamin C & E: These are all antioxidants that, according to Dr Garekar, “work at a cellular level to prevent the DNA damage of a cell due to UV rays.”

While research suggests these ingredients might offer some benefits, dermatologists like Dr Garekar, emphasise that sunscreen pills are not a replacement for topical sunscreen. They likely provide minimal, if any, protection against the full spectrum of UV rays (UVA and UVB) that damage skin. Sunscreen pills act more like internal boosters to your sun protection, she said.

Remember, when it comes to sun protection, a multi-layered approach is key to safeguarding your skin and maintaining a healthy glow. (Source: Freepik)

The importance of a multi-pronged approach

Sun protection remains a multi-pronged approach. Here’s what dermatologists recommend:

Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

Sun-protective clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats for added protection.

Seek shade: Especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), seek shade whenever possible.

While sunscreen pills might seem like a futuristic solution, more research is needed to determine their efficacy and safety for long-term use. Until then, sunscreens remain the gold standard for sun protection. Sunscreen pills might be a convenient addition to your sun protection routine, but they shouldn’t replace the essentials.