When it comes to sun protection, misconceptions persist. How effective are nutritional supplements in this area? Experts sort the true from the false.
Every year, as the sun begins to warm our skin again, questions resurface about the best way to enjoy it while protecting yourself from it. The star of the conversation is, of course, the sunscreen. If we no longer question the absolute necessity of wearing it, we know better how to optimize its use. In particular, wear it even if there are clouds, even in the city, even if you have dark or black skin, and most importantly, repeat it every two hours. But now there are other products on the market, such as nutritional supplements, that claim to protect us from the harmful effects of UV rays. What is it really?
Preparation is no defense
Well that’s not true. “Like some foods containing tyrosine, beta-carotene or cysteine, they help to prepare the skin in advance for exposure to the sun, but do not protect it from UV rays,” corrects Dr. Sylvie Perez. “It’s an urban legend. Generally, sunscreen supplements contain natural pigments found in vegetables and fruits that will give a slightly orange, healthy glow… but it’s not melanin synthesis, adds author Dermato Drey. Make peace with your skin: pimples, acne, scars… all good solutions (ed. Larousse).
In dermatology, we recommend solar nutritional supplements only in case of lightness. Indeed, they often contain antioxidants, molecules capable of scavenging free radicals, which may be beneficial for people allergic to the sun.
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Source: Le Figaro
