Almost nothing blocks 100% of UV unless you always stay in dark. So multiple sun protections are necessary if you really want to avoid photoaging as much as possible. Clothing and sunscreen can block some UV radiation, and topical antioxidant treatments can strengthen skin’s natural capability to fight UV damage. Surprisingly, some dietary supplements build your skin’s natural strength against UV insult as well.
In recent years, scientists have discovered that polypodium leucotomos extract (PLE) provides wonderful photoprotective effect if taken orally. PLE has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties. These properties help prevent sunburn and erythema. In addition, PLE inhibits reactive oxygen species (ROS), and reduces UVA-induced phototoxicity and skin photoaging. For people with skin photosensitization problems, PLE is almost a life saver.
Unlike other potential dietary supplements for sun protection, such as ß-carotene, PLE does not have reported adverse effects. This can be true or partially due to limited research. Finally, PLE is an extract of a fern species so, if you are allergic to ferns, please do not take it.
More about PLE:
webmd.com
Click the “review” tab to see others’ experience with polypodium leucotomos (Heliocare) at drugstore.com