Global anxiety about vitamin D deficiency has caused debates on photoprotection and solar exposures significance in meeting vitamin D requirements.

Passeron et al explored the published evidence to create a consensus on the influence of photoprotection by sunscreens on vitamin D status, viewing other relevant factors.

An international panel of 13 experts, including those from endocrinology, dermatology, photobiology, epidemiology and biological anthropology, scanned the literature before a 1-day meeting in June 2017, during which they discussed the evidence. They examined the methods of assessment and determining factors of vitamin D status and public health perspectives and assessed the consequences of sun exposure and the effects of photoprotection.

The panel agreed that a serum level of ≥50 nmol L⁻¹ 25(OH)D should be the target for all individuals. Broad-spectrum sunscreens that prevent erythema may not compromise vitamin D status in healthy populations. It is useful to restrict vitamin D screening to those at risk of hypovitaminosis, like patients with photosensitivity disorders, who require rigorous photoprotection. Hence, this group must receive screening and supplementation.

Thus, it is evident that sunscreen use for daily and recreational photoprotection does not compromise vitamin D synthesis, even when used under optimal conditions.

Source: Passeron T, Bouillon R, Callender V, et al. Sunscreen photoprotection and vitamin D status. Br J Dermatol. 2019;181(5):916-31.