As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us are spending more time outdoors—and that’s a good thing! Fresh air, movement, and sunshine all contribute to our overall health. But with rising skin cancer rates and widespread vitamin D deficiency, navigating the world of sun safety can feel a bit… complicated. Let’s break it down.
Sunlight is our body’s most natural and efficient source of vitamin D. When UVB rays hit your skin, it triggers vitamin D production—a crucial nutrient that supports bone health, immune function, mood regulation, and more. In fact, low vitamin D levels have been linked to fatigue, frequent illness, and even depression.
Sun exposure helps your body produce vitamin D, which plays a big role in:
- Strengthening bones
- Supporting your immune system
- Boosting mood and mental clarity
- Regulating hormones
- And more
But too much sun—especially without protection—can lead to:
- Sunburns
- Premature skin aging
- Increased risk of skin cancer
The key is smart sun exposure:
- Try 10–20 minutes of unprotected sun on arms/legs, a few times per week
- Mid-morning or late afternoon sun (before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.)
- Adjust exposure based on your skin tone and local UV index
If you’re outdoors longer than that, it’s time to protect your skin. But not all sunscreens are created equal.
- Choose a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient. These create a physical barrier on the skin and are generally well-tolerated
- Avoid chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone or avobenzone, which can be irritating and potentially harmful over time.
Other ways to protect your skin include:
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Seeking shade during peak sun hours
- Wearing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for extended outdoor time
- Hydrating well—sun and heat can dehydrate you faster than you think!
Sunshine can be a healing, energizing force—but like anything else in health, balance is key. You don’t have to hide from the sun, but you also don’t need to bake in it. Protect your skin, fuel your body wisely, and soak in the benefits of brighter days ahead.
