Impact of Sunscreen on Biosynthesis of Vitamin D in Females

The use of Sunscreens has been increasing over the last few decades, its awareness among general masses as protector from cancer, wrinkles, dark spot and tanning of skin are being emerged as one of the foremost basis of greater than before use of sunscreen. Primarily exposure to sunlight is the main source of biosynthesis of vitamin D in lower epidermal layer of skin where UVB rays photolyze provitamin D ( Synthesized from 7- hydrocholestrol ) to previtamin D. Unfortunately dietary sources of vitamin D is very scarce. The richest source is fatty fishes ( Tuna, Meckrel and salmon ) and fish liver oil whereas lesser amounts are found in egg yolks, cheese and beef liver. This study was designed to find out the impact of sunscreen on biosynthesis of vitamin D in females who were recently diagnosed as hypoivitaminosis D patients in different clinics. The total 213 newly diagnosed patients of hypovitaminosis D were given questionnaire to get their feed back about the regular use of sunscreen formulations. Out of 213 subjects 159 ( 74.64%, having vitamin level in serum within a range of 3.69 to 11.48 ng/ml ) were regularly using sunscreen and only 54 ( 25.35% having a range between 9.27 to 18.93 ng/ml ) patients were found as intermittent user. The ratio of subjects covertly indicative that sunscreen (mostly SPF 15 and 30) may slow down the biosynthesis of Vitamin D by blocking the UVB rays. Further studies with larger sample size would be required for better interpretation