Does suncream block vitamin D? Skincare expert reveals all

South Wales Argus

2 days ago

One way to do that is to apply suncream on exposed areas of skin, as it protects from harmful UVB rays.
This helps to prevent sunburn, which can increase your risk of getting skin cancer over time.
While this is a positive effect of using suncream, some people might wonder if applying it impacts the body's absorption of vitamin D.
Vitamin D is an important nutrient that the body can create from absorbing direct sunlight on the skin.
It helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
To answer people's questions regarding this subject, Dr Majad Hussain, co-founder of the skincare specialists MiQuest, has revealed how it all works.
Does suncream block vitamin D?
Dr Majad explains that suncream helps filter out the sun's harmful UVB rays, which coincidentally are the same rays that aid vitamin D production.
He adds: "There is some evidence that sunscreen (SPF) can reduce the skin's production of vitamin D from sunlight exposure, but the situation is more nuanced than often portrayed.
'In laboratory conditions with perfect application, it can inhibit vitamin D.
"However, in the real world where we can sometimes apply it unevenly and in patches, or not apply enough, then some UVB still reaches the skin, so vitamin D production usually isn't fully blocked.
"Most studies show regular sunscreen use doesn't lead to deficiency."
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Dr Majad also emphasised that sunlight is not the only method of making sure our body gets enough vitamin D.
He shared: 'If you are concerned you might not be getting enough vitamin D, you can try including rich sources such as oily fish, red meat and egg yolks.
'You could also speak to your doctor about whether taking a daily vitamin D supplement would be beneficial.'