It’s no secret that the sun is the #1 cause of photo aging to the skin… but it’s also the bodies’ best source of Vitamin D. Most of us know that. But what may not be known is how much you need from the sun… while still protecting your health… to get your dose of the big “D” – the mega vitamin responsible for strong bones, a mighty immune system, cancer prevention, heart health, and mental soundness.  It’s not a vitamin you want to lack.

Deficiencies in the vitamin lead to ugly side effects and health issues. Think about winter – when the darkness sets early and the dreaded side effects follow: sluggishness… low mood… lethargy.  Even depression and “seasonal affective disorder” are linked to low D levels.

That’s why summertime is so important for filling up on the critical vitamin.  BUT what level of sun exposure is considered dangerous now a days? Here are some answers to questions you may be asking:

  • How much time is safe in the sun before I’m at risk for sun damage? There’s a period of time for safe sun exposure – enough to fill your “D” tank before damage begins.  US News Health Reports, if you’re fair skinned, experts say going outside for 10 minutes in the midday sun—in shorts and a tank top with no sunscreen—will give you enough radiation to produce about 10,000 international units of the vitamin. 

    Those of a tanner origin need about 15-20 minutes to absorb the same amount… and those with extremely dark skin can probably go beyond 30 minutes without sun damage. One you’ve reached your limit, Dr. Mercola recommends: The rest of the day, you can spend in the shade, wear clothes, and, if you still want to be in the open sun, use a non-toxic lotion with SPF15 for uncovered skin. Just be sure to be on the safe side of burning! 

  • What if I already have on sunscreen? Will I still be able to absorb any vitamin D? YES. You can wear sunscreen and STILL benefit. A recent study conducted in London concludes that subjects wearing SPF 15 versus sunscreen-free subject absorbed plenty of Vitamin D – although not as much as the non-sunscreen group. HOWEVER, researchers still don’t know if a higher level of SPF would inhibit the vitamin more so.

A Product that Fits the Bill… MUAC offers an outstanding product to fight the detrimental effects of UV radiation in human skin, protecting and *repairing* DNA, thus preventing premature photo-aging: Our Anti Aging Day Protect with Preventhalia.  It provides the skin with a complete system of protection from intrinsic and extrinsic aging.  And, that… quite simply… is remarkable. Simply click here to review it for yourself.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Those of you using anything chemical, i.e., chemical peels, retinoids, or any acids are required to wear an SPF of 30 on your face or body where you’re using the products to protect from sun burning. These ingredients create ultra-sensitivity to sunlight within the areas used. The FDA requires sunscreen usage of at least an SPF 30 with these products.

As always we appreciate your readership and business. At MUAC, we strive to be your #1 source for skin health and beauty.