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Vitamin D And Sunscreen: Unveiling The Truth About Sun Protection And Your Health
Are You diligently applying sunscreen every day? The question on manny minds is: Are you still getting enough vitamin D? Dermatologists are now shedding light on how to navigate sun protection without compromising your health.
The Great Sunscreen Debate: Vitamin D Synthesis And Protection
Many people are concerned that using sunscreen daily coudl hinder the body’s ability to produce vitamin D, which is vital for maintaining healthy bones and a robust immune system. While it’s true that sunscreens block UVB rays-the very rays needed for vitamin D synthesis-experts argue the impact on your vitamin D levels is often negligible, if it exists at all.
How Your Body Makes Vitamin D
Vitamin D is naturally created in your skin when it’s exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. As Dr. Kellie Reed, a Texas-based dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology, explains, UVB rays interact with a protein in the skin called 7-dehydrocholesterol. This interaction starts a process that turns the energy into vitamin D3, which is the active form of vitamin D.
It’s meaningful to remember that too much sun can lead to sunburn and increase your risk of skin cancer over time. Thus,dermatologists always recommend using sunscreen and practicing other sun-safe behaviors to avoid overexposure.
Does Sunscreen Prevent Vitamin D Absorption?
despite common worries, Dr. Robert Den, an oncologist, points out that “sunscreen has a low or nonexistent impact on vitamin D levels.” Research indicates that people who regularly use sunscreen do not typically show vitamin D deficiencies when compared to those who skip sunscreen altogether.
Dr. Reed adds, “Even with perfect application, an SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Still, a small percentage makes its way to the skin, stimulating the production of vitamin D.”
Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen, or they forget to reapply it as often as they should. This means that some UVB rays are still reaching the skin.
Optimizing Vitamin D Intake safely
Dermatologists don’t suggest ditching sunscreen to boost vitamin D levels.Dr. Reed emphasizes that “there’s no evidence that sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency.” Skipping sun protection can lead to sunburn, dry skin, and a higher risk of skin cancer, which affects millions in the US annually.
To ensure you have enough vitamin D, a blood test can determine if you are at risk of a deficiency. According to Dr. Lauren penzi, a New York dermatologist, “10 to 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure on your face, arms, or legs, several times a week, can be enough to maintain proper levels without substantially increasing the risk of skin damage.”
A UK study found that just 13 minutes of midday sun exposure, three times a week, can maintain healthy vitamin D levels in adults with fair skin.
Option Sources Of Vitamin D
Besides the sun, vitamin D is available through diet and supplements. Good sources include salmon, tuna, mushrooms, and fortified foods, such as milk, plant-based beverages, and orange juice.
Dr. Den advises, “The most critically important thing is to talk to your doctor to check your vitamin D level and determine the best strategy for you.”
