Protocol · Dermatological/Immunological
Photodermatoses (Sun Sensitivity) Support Protocol
Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) and Beta-Carotene are the core of this stack, with 4 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Photodermatoses (Sun Sensitivity) Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
6 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) | Amount listed: 500 mg twice daily | Enhances cellular energy and DNA repair after UV damage; reduces skin cancer risk | Not graded yet | ||
| Beta-Carotene | Amount listed: 25–180 mg daily (dose depends on condition) | Provides photoprotection; used for erythropoietic protoporphyria and PMLE | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Polypodium Leucotomos Extract | Amount listed: 240–480 mg daily (or 2 hours before sun exposure) | Fern extract with photoprotective properties; reduces sunburn cells and DNA damage | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin E | Amount listed: 400–800 IU daily | Antioxidant; protects skin from UV-induced free radical damage | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily | Antioxidant; works synergistically with vitamin E for photoprotection | Not graded yet | ||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–4 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory; may increase time to sunburn | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
We earn from purchases made in our Fullscript store, and links to Fullscript, iHerb or Thorne carry our referral, so we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Grades come from the research and never change based on what we earn. Full disclosure
How this protocol works
In plain language
Photodermatoses are skin conditions caused or worsened by exposure to light, usually sunlight. They range from common conditions like polymorphous light eruption to rare genetic disorders.
COMMON TYPES:
- Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE): Most common; itchy rash after sun exposure
- Solar urticaria: Hives from sun exposure
- Chronic actinic dermatitis: Severe sun sensitivity, usually in older men
- Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP): Genetic; severe pain with sun exposure
- Drug-induced photosensitivity: From medications
SYMPTOMS:
- Rash, bumps, or hives on sun-exposed skin
- Itching, burning, or stinging
- Redness
- Blisters (severe cases)
- Occurs shortly after sun exposure
COMMON PHOTOSENSITIZING MEDICATIONS:
- Tetracyclines (doxycycline)
- Thiazide diuretics
- NSAIDs
- Sulfonamides
- Some antipsychotics
- Some antidepressants
PREVENTION:
- Strict sun protection (sunscreen SPF 50+, reapply)
- Protective clothing (UPF-rated)
- Avoid peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
- Seek shade
- Review medications for photosensitizers
MEDICAL TREATMENTS:
- Desensitization phototherapy (for PMLE)
- Topical corticosteroids for rash
- Antihistamines for itching
- Afamelanotide (for EPP)
Nicotinamide* has strong evidence for reducing UV damage.
Beta-carotene* provides some photoprotection.
Polypodium leucotomos* is an oral photoprotectant.
Expected timeline: Supplements should be taken consistently; take beta-carotene for 10 weeks before sun season for EPP. Nicotinamide provides ongoing protection.