Can a supplement work as sunscreen?

Excessively high doses of beta-carotene capsules can indeed give the body a light tan colour, but this does not provide adequate protection against UV rays. — dpa

What if sunburn protection – and getting a light, healthy-looking tan in the bargain – were as simple as swallowing a capsule?

Well, they are – at least according to some producers of beta-carotene dietary supplements.