Slather on the sunscreen, especially 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply it every two hours. These are rules that we must follow to safeguard our skin. Sunscreen is a product that can protect us from harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. There are lotions, creams, sticks and sprays that you can choose from. But have you heard about the new kid on the block \u2013 the oral sunscreen or sunscreen pill? You can simply pop the pill in to protect your skin. But is the oral sunscreen better than topical sunscreen? Before you decide to skip the sunscreen step from your skin care routine, know all about oral sunscreen.<\/p>\n
What is sunscreen?<\/h2>\n
Sunscreen<\/a> is a skincare product designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun. The radiation is divided into UVA and UVB rays, both of which can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer, says dermatologist Dr Vijay Singhal<\/a>. Available in various forms like creams, lotions, gels and sprays, sunscreens either absorb or scatter UV rays.<\/p>\n Oral sunscreen refers to dietary supplements claimed to provide protection against UV radiation<\/a>. These supplements typically contain antioxidants and other ingredients purported to enhance the skin\u2019s resistance to sun damage, says the expert. Here\u2019s the composition of oral sunscreen:<\/p>\n Having oral sunscreen may offer the following benefits:<\/p>\n It may reduce the severity of sunburn<\/a> due to ingredients like polypodium leucotomos extract. When polypodium leucotomos extract (240 mg) was taken by healthy adults twice every day for 60 days, it was found to be an effective means for reducing the UV rays\u2019 damaging effects, including sunburn, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology<\/a>.<\/p>\n Also Read<\/span><\/p>\n Antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals, which are unstable atoms capable of damaging cells, and causing ageing. They may potentially reduce photoaging<\/a> and the risk of skin cancer, says the expert.<\/p>\n Regular use of oral sunscreen may improve the skin\u2019s overall resilience to UV damage. Follow the dosage instructed by the manufacturer. It may vary, but typical recommendations for products with polypodium leucotomos extract are around 240 mg taken before sun exposure.<\/p>\n Topical sunscreens are the primary defense against UV radiation, says Dr Singhal. Here\u2019s a comparison of why topical sunscreen is generally preferred over oral sunscreen:<\/p>\n Topical sunscreen provides a physical barrier on the skin, directly blocking and absorbing UV rays. Oral sunscreen may offer indirect protection by enhancing the skin\u2019s natural defenses against UV damage.<\/p>\n Topical sunscreen allows precise control over application, ensuring all exposed skin is covered. Oral sunscreen effects are systemic and less controllable in terms of targeted protection.<\/p>\n Select Topics of your interest and let us customize your feed.<\/p>\n PERSONALISE NOW<\/a><\/div>\n Topical sunscreen provides immediate protection upon application. Oral sunscreen requires consistent use over time to build up effectiveness.<\/p>\n Topical sunscreen is regulated by health authorities and extensively tested for efficacy and safety. Oral sunscreen is less regulated, with limited scientific evidence supporting their efficacy. In fact, in 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration<\/a> warned people to steer clear of oral sunscreen. Such pills cannot protect against sun damage like sunburn or skin cancer, according to the FDA.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/images.healthshots.com\/healthshots\/en\/uploads\/2024\/04\/12162510\/Sunscreen-1-2-627x354.jpg\" "\\"A")
<\/source><\/picture><\/div>What is oral sunscreen?<\/h2>\n
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What are the benefits of oral sunscreen?<\/h2>\n
1. May reduce sunburn<\/h3>\n
![\"Best](\"https:\/\/images.healthshots.com\/healthshots\/en\/uploads\/2024\/05\/27122454\/pregnancy-safe-sunscreen-300x169.jpg\" "\\"Best")
<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n2. May improve skin health<\/h3>\n
3. May enhance skin resilience<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/images.healthshots.com\/healthshots\/en\/uploads\/2023\/10\/30142143\/morning-after-pill-627x354.jpg\" "\\"A")
<\/source><\/picture><\/div>Oral sunscreen vs Topical sunscreen<\/h2>\n
1. Effectiveness<\/h3>\n
2. Control and reliability<\/h3>\n
3. Immediate protection<\/h3>\n
4. Safety and regulation<\/h3>\n