June 1987 PMID 3033008

Sunscreens suppress cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis.

L Y Matsuoka, L Ide, J Wortsman, J A MacLaughlin, M F Holick

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AI synopsis

What people are saying

The posts emphasize the crucial role of sunlight in vitamin D production and critique sunscreens for blocking this process, using strong words like 'block' and 'clog' to stress potential health risks. The tone is mainly informative and concerned, reflecting interest in how sunscreen use might undermine health, supported by references to studies confirming the interference of certain compounds with vitamin D synthesis.

AgreementModerate agreement

The discussion shows a general acknowledgment of sunscreens blocking vitamin D synthesis, with some emphasizing its health importance.

InterestHigh interest

The mention of multiple studies and health implications indicates a high level of curiosity and concern.

EngagementModerate engagement

Participants reference scientific concepts like 'paraalmixobenzoic acid' and note health effects, suggesting moderate engagement.

ImpactModerate impact

The conversation highlights potential health impacts, but without calls for immediate action, so moderate impact.

Abstract in brief

Sunscreens block UVB rays, which helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer, but they also inhibit the skin's ability to produce vitamin D3, a nutrient important for health.
In an experiment, unprotected individuals showed a significant increase in vitamin D3 levels after UV exposure, while those using sunscreen with paraaminobenzoic acid did not, indicating sunscreen prevents vitamin D3 synthesis.
Laboratory tests confirmed that paraaminobenzoic acid sunscreen also stops the conversion of a skin compound, 7-dehydrocholesterol, into vitamin D3, further proving that sunscreens interfere with vitamin D3 production in the skin.

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