There are key ingredients in oral sunscreen supplements that work to improve overall sun protection. One such ingredient is polypodium leucotomos, which comes from a tropical fern native to the Americas. A study in the US titled “Safety and Efficacy of Oral Polypodium leucotomos Extract in Healthy Adult Subjects reported that participants experienced a decrease in the number of sunburn episodes and lesser skin erythema (redness) when exposed to the sun after taking the extract orally.
Another key ingredient is Glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that naturally occurs in the body. Benefits include supporting general immunity and breaking down free radicals. It can be taken orally as well as L-glutathione (a more processed form) with a study from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia stating “L-glutathione also reduced the oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant levels and preventing lipid peroxidation activity. Hence, it could protect the skin from photodamage and has potential as a natural alternative agent for photoprotection.”
Finally, many oral sunscreen supplements also contain white tomato, which contains powerful carotenoids’ phytoene and phytofluene that have strong skin rejuvenating properties. These antioxidants have been shown to combat inflammation, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing caused by UV. Studies have shown that these elements make white tomato a powerful ingredient in many sun-protecting products.
Here are five brands bringing these ingredients and more to the market, enabling users to extend and enhance the life of their sunscreens by popping a pill (or sachet) a day.
