Does sunscreen block vitamin D synthesis? A literature review

Introduction and Objective.Cholecalciferol has known positive biological properties, including protection against osteoporosis, facilitating the absorption of certain elements, stimulating insulin secretion, participating in the process of building bones and teeth, and is even suspected of having an impact on preventing depression.Nowadays, due to the multitude of sources, opponents of using sunscreens as protection against cancer development question the necessity of using them precisely because of the fear of impaired vitamin D production.The aim of the study is to analyze the effect of using sunscreens on the synthesis of vitamin D in the body.Brief description of the state of knowledge.Ultraviolet radiation can affect the skin both positively and negatively.The advantages of UV radiation include participation in the synthesis of vitamin D3 and the production of melanin that protects against sunburn, a beneficial effect on well-being, protection against the development of selected autoimmune processes, and a wide application in the treatment of dermatological diseases.The negative sides of UV action are sunburn, photo-aging and a factor in the development of non-cancers.In order to minimize the negative effects of solar radiation, it is necessary to use broadly understood photoprotection, including primarily creams with a filter.Summary.All publications undeniably emphasize the carcinogenic effects of radiation on human skin and the need for photoprotection.No article, however, mentions the need to ban or reduce the use of sunscreen due to vitamin D deficiencies.The benefits of photoprotection far outweigh the potential reduction in vitamin D, which can be easily regulated by supplementation.