Is there a pill I can take that fights the damaging effects of the sun, decreases the rate of pre-cancerous actinic keratoses and non-melanoma skin cancers, and reduces signs of aging?
No, this isn’t a trick; there actually is!
Nicotinamide, also known as Niacinamide,
is a form of Vitamin B3 that has been shown to decrease the risk of skin cancer in multiple studies by helping to repair UV-induced DNA damage. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratoses are known to be caused primarily by UV radiation. (Source)
Studies show that in people who have had skin cancer, taking nicotinamide can reduce the number of new skin cancers and new actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions) after one year. Nicotinamide also has anti-inflammatory benefits and has been studied to help treat skin diseases such as rosacea, acne, and melasma. Nicotinamide occurs naturally in meat, fish, nuts, grains, and legumes.
The recommended dose of Niacinamide (= Nicotinamide) is 500mg two times a day*** (if you take a ‘statin’ for cholesterol management, talk with your primary care doctor before taking.)
Do NOT purchase Niacin.
Niacin is a different formulation of the vitamin and is used primarily for high cholesterol, not skin conditions. Niacin can cause severe flushing.
Pretty cool, huh? Well hold on tight, there’s more!
Is there a pill I can take that helps prevent sunburn and can protect my skin from the harmful effects of free radicals?
Why yes, there is!
An alternative dietary supplement called Heliocare protects skin using the power of the unique Polypodium leukotomos fern. Polypodium leukotomos is a tropical fern found in Central and South America that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and is marketed as an oral ‘sunscreen.’ This natural ingredient, which is what sets Heliocare apart from other products that contain vitamins and antioxidants, was chosen for its natural ability to protect the fern from the elements. Taken regularly, Heliocare helps protect your skin from the effects of free radicals that can cause wrinkles, brown spots, and aging.
Heliocare Advanced contains PLE with 500mg Nicotinamide and may offer the combined benefits of PLE with Nicotinamide as detailed above.
*** Before you take any supplements, check with your primary care doctor to make sure there are no interactions with medications you take and that you have no medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease that preclude you from taking these. These drugs aren’t recommended if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Stay Sun Safe
Since we don’t yet have a magic pill to completely prevent sunburn and eliminate the risk of skin cancer, don’t forget to wear your broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and schedule yearly skin checks!