Many people turn to sunlight as a source of vitamin D, particularly at this time of year, but dermatologists do not recommend relying on the sun as your primary source. UV exposure can stimulate vitamin D production, which is important for supporting bone, muscle and immune health, but on the flip side, it is also associated with skin ageing, DNA damage and an increased risk of skin cancer. Dermatologists instead recommend a balanced approach, using diet and supplements as the main source of vitamin D while continuing to enjoy time outdoors with appropriate sun protection.
Smita Ahluwalia, an advanced skin specialist, educator and founder of Smita London, has more than 25 years of experience specialising in skin health. With a degree in Chemistry and advanced aesthetic training, she is an award-winning industry expert known for combining scientific knowledge with a holistic approach to long-term skin wellbeing.
Here, she shares with Wellbeing Magazine why dermatologists advise against relying on sun exposure as a primary source of vitamin D and explains safer alternatives.
Why Dermatologists Don’t Recommend the Sun as Your Primary Source of Vitamin D
“People can get vitamin D from sun exposure, but there is always a level of risk with sun damage. The challenge is that the same ultraviolet (UV) radiation that stimulates vitamin D production is also a factor in skin ageing, DNA damage, and skin cancer risk. Exposure to UV rays is never risk-free.
Unintended exposure, such as walking for short distances or spending any time outside, even without sunbathing or tanning, can provide a source of Vitamin D production. I recommend walking in the mornings for 20 minutes, sun protection free, to get some source of vitamin D.
Genetics and geography can also affect exactly how much vitamin D your body can produce.
Dermatologists recommend not using or relying on the Sun as your main source of Vitamin D. I generally advise my clients to take a holistic approach and get their main source of vitamin D through diet and supplements because these methods do not increase skin cancer risk. For instance, fatty fish, fortified foods, and expert-led supplementation recommendations are a smarter way to ensure you are getting enough vitamin D. They are also safer and more reliable ways to go about it.”
Finding the Right Balance Between Vitamin D and Sun Safety
“I recommend striking a balance between vitamin D exposure and sun safety with moderation over avoidance. So, People should definitely continue enjoying time outside and they can practice daily sun protection by wearing a high quality spectrum SPF such as a 30+ sunscreen, which should be ideally applied frequently whilst outside. I prefer mineral based as less chemicals.
It’s important to bear in mind that there is evidence that repeated UV exposure accumulates over time, increasing the risk of premature ageing and skin cancers.
For patients concerned about deficiency, I recommend discussing vitamin D testing and supplementation with an expert.
Also, not everyone needs the same amount of vitamin D – generally, darker skin needs more as it has more melanin.
The “one-size-fits-all” idea doesn’t really hold up once you look at how differently bodies produce and use it.”
For more information about Smita Ahluwalia, Advanced Skin Specialist and Founder of Smita London, visit www.smitalondon.com
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Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
