Sunscreens block cutaneous vitamin D production with only a minimal effect on circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D

ConclusionsAlthough a 50+ sunscreen decreases significantly cutaneous vitamin D production following a single nbUVB exposure, and independently from the BSA, the circulating 25(OH)D3 levels were only minimally affected. This could be explained by a switch to another endogenous source of precursors. Short-term sunscreen use probably does not affect circulating vitamin D levels and hence does not increase the risk for osteoporosis. The effect of long-term sunscreen use remains however to be determined.
Source: Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery - Category: Orthopaedics Source Type: research