Sunscreens usage is improving among the population to prevent skin cancer, but such use can lead to vitamin D compounds deficiency. These fat-soluble vitamins are vital for mineral absorption in the body. Vitamin D3, in particular, ensures a healthy and strong immune system. This study assesses the association between sunscreen usage and vitamin D3 concentrations in the body.
The objective of the study is to assess the sunscreen effect on Vitamin D production. The aim is to find the association between sunscreen usage and Vitamin D3 or 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. Researchers identified the published manuscripts for literary review using MOOSE guidelines. The eligible data from UVR source experiments (4), field trials (3 with 2 randomized controlled), and observational studies (69) got analyzed, along with the results of experiments and field trials. They scored the observational data using specific criteria and then subjected it to qualitative synthesis.
In the experiments, sunscreen generated artificial UVR and stopped vitamin D3 production. The randomized controlled field trials did not find any association. Moderate sunscreen with a protection factor SPF 16 did not lower vitamin D3, despite daily use. Observational studies were also negative, while self-reported use showed higher 25(OH) D levels.
Experiments showed that there is a very low risk of lowered D3 due to sunscreen. The evidence is inadequate, as there are no studies for the high SPF creams, which are common today.
Ref: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bjd.17980
