Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026

Studying Chronic Exposure of Mice to Ultraviolet B Radiation
Published on: August 19, 2025
[Does sunscreen use influence the level of vitamin D in the body?]
Olga Debska1, Grazyna Kamińska-Winciorek, Radosław Spiewak
1Uniwersytet Jagiellorński Collegium Medicum, Zakład Dermatologii Doświadczalnej i Kosmetologii, Wydział Farmaceutyczny, Kraków.
Abstract:
Solar radiation is necessary for the normal functioning of the body. It enables the synthesis of vitamin D that supports the physiological status of the skeleton, it also improves the frame of mind. Nevertheless, UV irradiation also induces adverse effects in the skin, including sunburn and skin cancer. The use of sunscreens is highly recommended during periods of intensive insolation. There are, however, concerns about possible interference with synthesis of vitamin D in the skin by sunscreens, which might lead to hypovitaminosis. The present article summarises published studies on the possible inhibition of vitamin D synthesis as a result from using sunscreens.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Skin in Vitamin D Synthesis
The solar UV B rays (290-315 nm) are absorbed by the skin, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (provitamin D3) photolyzes it to previtamin D3, which undergoes a rapid transformation to vitamin D3(cholecalciferol).
Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
Mutations
Chromosomal Alterations Are Large-Scale Mutations
While point mutations are changes in a single nucleotide in...
Mutations
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Energy Transfer in Chemical Reactions
