Sun protection goes beyond just slathering on creams; it’s also about taking care of your skin from the inside out. While using sunscreen is still the best way to shield yourself from UV rays, taking oral supplements for photoprotection is becoming a great way to boost your skin’s ability to fight off oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen breakdown from sun exposure.

Understanding how oral photoprotection functions: Essential components

In a chat with a lifestyle magazine, Dr. Renita Rajan, the founder of CHOSEN, shared that some bioactive compounds have solid scientific support for shielding the skin from sun damage. Notably, Pycnogenol, Marine Collagen Peptides, and Astaxanthin are highlighted for their diverse protective benefits against the sun. She went into more detail about it. -

• Pycnogenol, which comes from French Maritime Pine Bark, is one of the most researched oral sun protectors out there. Studies show it can help reduce redness from UV exposure, manage melanin production, and increase hyaluronic acid levels, which keeps your skin hydrated and elastic. Plus, it helps control inflammation by modulating a key pathway called nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), making it a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory option for maintaining healthy skin over time.
• Marine Collagen Peptides are another great addition because UV rays can break down collagen, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. By taking marine collagen, you get peptides that are easily absorbed, which can boost fibroblast activity and collagen production, helping your skin repair faster and stay elastic after sun exposure.
• Astaxanthin is a powerful carotenoid that fights off reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by UV rays, reducing inflammation and protecting your skin from aging due to sun damage. It also helps with pigmentation issues caused by blue light (HEVL), making it a great choice for anyone dealing with uneven skin tone or hyperpigmentation.

Oral sunscreens are most effective when used alongside other sun protection methods

Dr. Renita Rajan says that even though oral photoprotectors aren't a substitute for topical sunscreens, they can boost your skin's natural defenses when combined with other protective methods:

Topical sunscreens that cover a wide range of UV rays, including UVA, UVB, and HEVL (blue light). You can also use physical sun protection like UPF clothing, hats, and sunglasses to limit direct sun exposure. Plus, oral photoprotectors can help fight oxidative stress, enhance hydration, and maintain collagen health.

Here's what the research shows: Clinical outcomes for oral sun protection

Dr. Renita Rajan mentioned that oral photoprotection offers more advantages than just preventing sunburn (erythema). Research indicates that components like Pycnogenol and Astaxanthin contribute positively as well:

• Adjust immune reactions – Stopping UV-related immune suppression, which is crucial for skin aging and long-term durability.
• Boost barrier strength – Improving the skin’s capacity to bounce back after UV exposure.
• Minimize oxidative stress and inflammation – Slowing down the effects of photoaging and the breakdown of collagen over time.

The next wave in sun protection: A comprehensive strategy

Dr. Renita Rajan emphasized that the future of sun care lies in a combined approach, where both internal and external methods collaborate for complete skin protection. Upcoming studies might delve into this concept:

1. Customized sun protection – Adjusting oral supplements to fit a person's genetic risk for sun damage.
2. Boosted absorption – Improving how well antioxidants and collagen peptides are taken in for better results.
3. Blended treatments – Combining oral and topical sun protection for the best skin health over time.

Dr. Renita Rajan wrapped it up by saying, “Oral photoprotection shouldn’t be seen as a substitute for sunscreen; rather, it’s a scientifically backed method to boost skin health from the inside out. When you pair it with broad-spectrum sunscreen and physical sun protection, ingredients like Pycnogenol, Marine Collagen, and Astaxanthin can enhance skin structure, keep it hydrated, and improve its long-term resistance to UV damage. As research progresses, incorporating internal sun protection methods will become increasingly important in skincare, anti-aging, and maintaining skin health over time.”

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