Safe Tanning to Boost Vitamin D Levels
- Limit Sun Exposure
Spend 10-30 minutes in the sun several times a week, depending on your skin type and UV intensity. Fairer skin needs less time, while darker skin may require more. - Avoid Peak UV Hours
Sunbathe early in the morning or late in the afternoon when UV rays are less intense, typically before 10 AM or after 4 PM. - Use Sunscreen Sparingly
Covering the body with sun protection factor completely stops the creation of vitamin D thus negating the very benefit you could have from its protective powers. Additionally, the skin absorbs chemicals like SPF, which can be harmful, especially for children. Gradual sun exposure builds natural protection—a tan—and boosts Vitamin D. Early morning or late afternoon sunlight, when your shadow is longer than your height, is best. Cover up at the first sign of pinkness; Near Infrared rays still provide benefits. Once pinkness fades, re-expose gradually. Melanin develops in 2-3 days, effectively protecting even fair skin. - Monitor Skin Response
Avoid tanning to the point of redness or burning. Gradual exposure is safer and healthier. - Supplement if Needed
If sunlight is limited due to weather, location, or health reasons, consider vitamin D supplements as an alternative.
Some people need to keep out of direct sunshine due to a health condition or perhaps some medication that makes them sensitive to light, they are usually sensitive to higher energy wavelengths such as Ultra violet. You cannot screen out all the wavelengths from sunlight but Red Light Therapy is one way to enjoy healthy light so an option worth exploring.
In Northern latitudes like Scotland, sunlight is scarce, especially in winter. Many people spend over 90% of their time indoors, away from natural light, with artificial lighting like LEDs lacking red light, Infra Red (IR), and Ultra Violet (UV) components. UV light is essential for producing Vitamin D, while IR light energises our mitochondria. Modern life isolates us from these vital wavelengths, contributing to chronic symptoms. It’s no surprise we feel better after time in the sun. IR light therapy offers a safe, natural way to regain these health benefits, and the Health Hub now provides UVB phototherapy to boost Vitamin D levels.
By balancing sun exposure and protection, you can safely support your vitamin D levels while maintaining healthy skin.
The protection from adequate levels of Vitamin D are wide ranging including protection from several cancers and your immune system absolutely depends on vitamin D. As a result, most people will benefit from taking a supplement – but Vitamin D from natural sunlight is best!
