Sunscreen in a pill

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 sunscreens, 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

The authoritative agency of the Food and Drug Administration is yet to sanction oral supplements as a replacement for traditional sunscreens.

Accept capsules OTC

Many medicinal strips are sold over the counter (OTC) 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 or 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.

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, a consultant dermatologist at the Hyderabad-based Zennara wellness clinic. 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.

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 or her skin condition, while at the same time taking into consideration any underlying health problems that could reverse the results post-usage,” warns the skin specialist.

Controlled penetration by these rays would mean that fewer 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. 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 — Dr Andrea Rachel Castelino

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 — Shraddha Deshpande