Sunscreen is an important tool for protecting the skin against the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, there has been some concern that using sunscreen can prevent the body from absorbing vitamin D from the sun. In this article, we'll explore the relationship between sunscreen and vitamin D absorption and whether there are any brands of sunscreen that allow for better absorption.

The effect of sunscreen on Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in many bodily functions, including bone health, immune function, and muscle function. The body can synthesize vitamin D when the skin is exposed to UVB radiation from the sun. However, overexposure to UV radiation can also cause sunburn, skin damage, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

This is where sunscreen comes in. Sunscreen works by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the UV radiation that reaches the skin, reducing the amount of radiation that penetrates the skin. This, in turn, reduces the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

So, does sunscreen prevent the body from absorbing vitamin D from the sun? The short answer is yes, it can. Studies have shown that the use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher can reduce vitamin D synthesis in the skin by up to 99 percent (1).

However, it's important to note that the body can also obtain vitamin D from dietary sources, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods like milk and cereal. Additionally, the body can store vitamin D in fat cells and release it when needed, so a short-term reduction in vitamin D synthesis from sun exposure is unlikely to have significant consequences for most people (2).

That being said, there are some groups of people who may be at risk of vitamin D deficiency, including those with limited sun exposure, dark skin, and certain medical conditions that affect vitamin D absorption. For these individuals, it may be important to take steps to ensure adequate vitamin D intake, such as taking vitamin D supplements or consuming vitamin D-rich foods.

Different types of sunscreen

Now, what about the second part of the question - are there any brands of sunscreen that allow for better vitamin D absorption? The answer is yes, some brands of sunscreen are designed to allow for better vitamin D absorption. These sunscreens are sometimes called "vitamin D-friendly" or "vitamin D-enhancing" sunscreens.

These sunscreens typically have lower levels of UVA protection, which allows for more UVB radiation to penetrate the skin and stimulate vitamin D synthesis. Some of these sunscreens also contain vitamin D or its precursors, such as 7-dehydrocholesterol, which can be converted to vitamin D in the skin when exposed to UVB radiation.

However, it's important to note that using these sunscreens may increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer if not used properly. It's also important to choose a sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and to apply it properly, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sunscreen can reduce the amount of vitamin D synthesis in the skin, but this is unlikely to have significant consequences for most people. Those at risk of vitamin D deficiency may need to take steps to ensure adequate vitamin D intake. While there are "vitamin D-friendly" sunscreens on the market, it's important to use them appropriately and follow other sun protection measures to reduce the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

Sources

1. Diffey, B. L., & Modenese, A. (2017). Sunscreens that enhance vitamin D synthesis: a review. British Journal of Dermatology, 177(1), 31-39.

2. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Vitamin D. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/