Health Watch (Oral Sunscreens)

<p style="text-align: center;"> Should Sunscreen Pills Replace Topical Sunblocks?

Latest skin-related studies show that sunscreens can be administered orally instead of applying externally to the skin. Dietary supplements rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can increase skin resistance to the sun’s harmful UV radiation. Before markets get flooded with these tablets, let’s probe if such remedies could replace the topical sunblocks. Medical experts weigh in.

BY PRAMITA BOSE

Popping pills to save the skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays could sound strange and implausible. But that’s what the latest breakthrough in dermatology claims. Can this trending theory be put into practice?

Safe and easy to take

“Oral supplements are generally considered safer and more convenient than topical sun creams, lotions, sprays, gels, foams, sticks or powders because they consist of vitamins and natural extracts. They provide whole-body protection without the need for frequent reapplication, unlike topical products. However, these pills are not a substitute but just an addition to the sunscreen kit,” clarifies dermatologist Dr. Shraddha Deshpande, who also doubles up as an ace aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

No regulatory approval

Are these products scientifically proven? The authoritative agency of the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is yet to sanction oral supplements as a replacement for using traditional sunscreens. “Although some pharma studies suggest that these elements can help shield the skin, they are not yet reckoned as substitutes for sun-screening creams or lotions by any regulatory body. As of now, oral sunscreens should only be taken into account as an additional layer of precaution,” reports Dr. Deshpande.

Accept capsules over the counter?

Many medicinal strips are sold across the counter of a drugstore without a doctor’s prescription. But how far is it legal and ethical to buy and consume such medicines without resorting to a physician's proper guidance and knowledge? “It is legit to purchase and eat over-the-counter dietary supplements without a doctor’s advice. However, it's not always wise and suitable to have them without consulting a healthcare provider. Improper usage can trigger adverse reactions. Therefore, it’s always better to seek a personalised opinion from a medical professional,” cautions the physician.

Oral sunscreens & side effects

“Given that the oral sunscreens are prescribed by dermatologists and consumed as per their instructions, there are no potential side effects,” attests Dr. Andrea Rachel Castelino, consultant dermatologist at Bengaluru-based DermaZeal Clinic.

Oral sunscreens lack FDA nods and a gold standard protocol, thus drawing mixed responses from individuals due to their differences in formulations and quality.

“Although no specific side effects have been hitherto detected for oral sunscreens, there is a dearth of sufficient scientific evidence on their long-term usage. As a safety measure, we advise clients to discontinue it after two months of continuous medication. It is always prudent to discuss with a doctor before resorting to any new supplement,” reminds Dr. Madhurya, consultant dermatologist at Hyderabad-based Zennara wellness clinic.

Assistant drug, not a replacement

Oral sunscreens may come across as quick-fix solutions but can they be swapped with topical sunscreens in the long haul? “Oral sunblocks cannot replace the topical products but are used as an adjuvant along with them,” confirms Dr. Castelino.

Echoing this statement, Dr. Madhurya said: “Oral sunscreens are intended to supplement topical sunblocks, not replace them entirely. The FDA has so far directed brands to market these products as antioxidant dietary supplements rather than oral sunscreens. In India too, there are currently no regulations implemented by the drug controlling authority to recognise oral sunblocks. Therefore, you shouldn't depend solely on tablets for sun protection. It's essential to apply topical sunscreens for effective resilience to the sun damage as well as photoaging.”

Oral sunscreens at an advantage

Photoprotective topical sunscreens form the primary barrier against UV rays by absorbing, reflecting or scattering the rays. They are specifically formulated to protect skin damage from the UVA and UVB rays (two types of UV light with risks of sparking skin cancer, and are associated with skin aging and skin burning, respectively) of the sun.

“Controlled penetration by these rays would mean that less Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are produced, thereby lowering the oxidative stress. However, topical sunscreens do have their limitations and wear off within a short span. Therefore, under persistent sun exposure, oral sunscreens can be more useful as they act against the oxidative stress that takes place with the penetration of the UV rays,” recommends Dr. Castelino.

Keeping tabs on health issues and allergies

“Oral sunscreens must be prescribed by an experienced dermatologist based on the duration of an individual’s sun exposure and his/her skin condition, while at the same time, taking into consideration any underlying health problems that could reverse the results post their usage,” warns the skin specialist.

Hence, it makes sense to monitor one’s skin health and regime regularly before taking a risky plunge to adopt trendy treatments and products swamping the market.

Composition:

Oral sunscreens mainly contain the following ingredients: 

• ·       Antioxidants like vitamins C and E
• ·       Plant extracts, namely polypodium leucotomos
• ·       Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
• ·       Omega-3 fatty acids and green tea extracts
• ·       Minerals like zinc and selenium 

The above ingredients are known for their potential to help safeguard the skin from harsh UV impacts.

 

Dosage: 

The dosage frequency of oral sunblocks depends on a specific product. Typically, these supplements are taken on a daily basis. While some people consume them all the year round, others take them only during the warmer months in summer. “It is advisable to follow the concerned product's guidelines or consult a medical practitioner,” insists Dr. Deshpande.

 

Demerits of Topical Sunscreens: 

• ·    Applying a sunscreen physically can be tricky
• ·   It tends to miss spots, leaving some skin areas exposed to the sun and thus unprotected from sunburns and skin tan
• ·  One needs to repeat the application process every two hours or after swimming, sweating or towel drying, which can be bothersome.
• · Some formulations might also give off a sticky or greasy residue, while certain ingredients could cause skin irritation

Solar Damage:

Explaining the root cause of the problem, Dr. Andrea Castelino says: “Sun damage to the skin primarily happens due to the oxidative stress caused by the UV rays hitting the skin. The rays penetrate and induce the formation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which are highly reactive molecules capable of suppressing the skin’s immune function, causing inflammation and breaking down the collagen (body protein) in the skin, resulting in sunburns, premature aging of the skin and wrinkles.”

“To combat this oxidative stress, oral sunscreens comprising skin-defending antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, plus minerals can be dispensed for administration,” she adds further.

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