It’s a necessary staple in Australia – especially in summer – but new research has added a new dimension to the conversations around sunscreen.
A study from Australia’s QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute with input from UWA has found a direct link between consistent daily use of high-factor sunscreen and a higher likelihood of vitamin D deficiency.
However, the researchers behind the study have said the findings should be a call for informed action, not a reason to abandon sun protection altogether.
Published in the British Journal of Dermatology, the study from the Sun D Trial investigated the health outcomes of 639 participants who were not regular sunscreen users.
The group was divided into two halves, with one instructed to apply SPF50+ sunscreen daily for one year, excluding winter in southern regions. The other half served as a control group, using sunscreen as they normally would.
After 12 months, 46% of the daily sunscreen group were classified as vitamin D deficient, a significant increase compared to the 37% deficiency rate found in the control group.
Despite these findings, lead investigator Professor Rachel Neale said: “Sunscreen remains a cornerstone of skin cancer prevention, backed by decades of robust evidence.”
“Our findings simply suggest that people who are diligent about daily sunscreen use may want to consider vitamin D supplementation as a safe, effective and cheap way to maintain healthy vitamin D levels.”
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The researchers emphasised that risks associated with unprotected sun exposure, particularly the risk of developing life-threatening skin cancers, far outweigh any potential benefit of generating vitamin D naturally through the sun.
Unlike the risks of UV radiation, which directly cause DNA damage and increase cancer risk, they stressed that vitamin D deficiency can be safely and effectively managed.
“There’s no evidence that sun exposure is more effective than supplementation for maintaining vitamin D,” Professor Neale said.
“Given the risks of skin cancer, especially in Australia, we strongly advise people not to change their sunscreen habits.”
It is recommended people continue to use SPF50+ sunscreen daily when the UV index is forecast to reach at least three.
However, for those who are consistent in their application of sunscreen as part of their daily routine, it is now recommended to consider vitamin D supplements.
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