Sunscreen Pills Don't Replace the Bottle: What the FDA Warnings Say
'Drink your sunscreen' supplements sound convenient, but the FDA has been clear that no pill protects your skin from UV.
In 2018 the FDA issued warning letters to companies marketing oral 'sunscreen' supplements, stating that no pill can replace topical sunscreen and that these products made illegal drug claims.
The FDA states plainly that there is no pill or capsule that can replace sunscreen, and that consumers should rely on topical protection backed by clothing and shade.
Questions we get a lot
Do oral sunscreen supplements actually protect my skin?
No. The FDA has stated that no pill or supplement can replace topical sunscreen for UV protection. In 2018 it sent warning letters to companies whose 'sunscreen' supplements made illegal drug claims. Rely on topical sunscreen instead.
Why did the FDA take action against 'drink your sunscreen' products?
The FDA found these supplements were marketed with claims that they protect against UV, which are illegal drug claims for products that do not deliver such protection. The agency issued warning letters in 2018. It reiterated that no pill can replace topical sunscreen.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'These 'sunscreen capsules' keep showing up on my feed. Do they actually replace SPF?'