[Does sunscreen use influence the level of vitamin D in the body?].

Author: Debska O, Kamińska-Winciorek G, Spiewak R.
Affiliation: Uniwersytet Jagiellorński Collegium Medicum, Zakład Dermatologii Doświadczalnej i Kosmetologii, Wydział Farmaceutyczny, Kraków.
Conference/Journal: Pol Merkur Lekarski.
Date published: 2013 Jun
Other: Volume ID: 34 , Pages: 368-70 , Special Notes: [Article in Polish] , Word Count: 103



Solar radiation is necessary for the normal functioning of the body. It enables the synthesis of vitamin D that supports the physiological status of the skeleton, it also improves the frame of mind. Nevertheless, UV irradiation also induces adverse effects in the skin, including sunburn and skin cancer. The use of sunscreens is highly recommended during periods of intensive insolation. There are, however, concerns about possible interference with synthesis of vitamin D in the skin by sunscreens, which might lead to hypovitaminosis. The present article summarises published studies on the possible inhibition of vitamin D synthesis as a result from using sunscreens.
PMID: 23882939