Sun block that promotes Vitamin D production

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of creating a sunblock that allows for Vitamin D synthesis while providing protection from harmful UV rays. Vitamin D is synthesized effectively at wavelengths of 270-290nm, which are just outside the UVA and UVB spectra. The use of salicylic acid as an active ingredient in sunblock may not inhibit Vitamin D production, but the challenge remains in separating Vitamin D metabolism from skin burning. The ultraviolet action spectra for DNA damage, skin cancer, and Vitamin D3 photosynthesis are identical, complicating the development of such a product.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of UV radiation spectra, specifically UVA and UVB ranges
  • Knowledge of Vitamin D synthesis and its wavelength requirements
  • Familiarity with active ingredients in sunblock, particularly salicylic acid
  • Awareness of the implications of UV exposure on skin health
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of salicylic acid in sunblock formulations
  • Explore the mechanisms of Vitamin D synthesis in the skin
  • Investigate alternative sunblock ingredients that may allow for Vitamin D production
  • Study the effects of UV radiation on skin health and cancer risk
USEFUL FOR

Dermatologists, cosmetic chemists, health professionals, and anyone involved in the formulation of sun protection products.

Loren Booda
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Could one design an effective sun block which passes the spectrum necessary for Vitamin D synthesis?
 
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Vitamin D is most succesfully synthesized in the skin at wavelengths of 270-290nm, which is just outside of the UVA and UVB spectra. A sunblock that uses salicylic acid as the effective ingredient shouldn't block Vit D production.
 
Vitamin D production peaks at 297 nm, right in the middle of the UVB band (280 - 315 nm), suggesting that separation of Vitamin D metabolism from burning will be difficult or impossible.

EDIT: "..the ultraviolet action spectra for DNA damage, skin cancer, and vitamin D3 photosynthesis are identical ..."
B. Gilchrest, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 88, No. 2, 570S-577S, August 2008
 
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