Do sunscreen supplements protect me from UV rays?

Every year, as the sun begins to warm our skin again, questions arise about how best to enjoy it while protecting ourselves from it. The star of the conversation is, of course, sunscreen. If we no longer question the absolute necessity of wearing it, we know better how to optimize its use. Namely, wear it even if there are clouds, even in the city, even if you have dark or black skin, and above all, reapply it every two hours. But now there are other products on the market, such as dietary supplements, that claim to protect us from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. What is it really?

Preparation does not mean protection

Well, that’s not true. “Like some products containing tyrosine, beta-carotene or cysteine, they help prepare the skin for sun exposure, but do not protect it from ultraviolet rays,” corrects Dr. Sylvie Perez. “It’s an urban legend! Typically, sunscreen supplements contain natural pigments found in fruits and vegetables that give skin a slightly orange, healthy glow… but it’s not melanin synthesis, adds dermatologist Dray, author of the book. Make peace with your skin: pimples, pimples, scars… all good solutions (ed. Larousse).

In dermatology, we recommend solar nutritional supplements only in cases of dizziness. Indeed, they often contain antioxidants, molecules that can scavenge free radicals, which can be beneficial for people with sun allergies.