The Sun Conundrum: Why Hiding From the Sun is Leading to Vitamin D Deficiency

Lately, it seems like we’re always being told about the dangers of the sun and how skin cancer is on the rise across the United States. Out of fear, many of us have started to slather on sunscreen religiously and have decreased the amount of time that we’re spending in the sun. While it is true that overexposure to the sun can lead to early aging and skin cancer, there are many serious consequences that stem from lack of healthy UV exposure.

The Dangers of Vitamin D Deficiency

It is estimated that nearly 42% of adults and 70% of all children in the U.S. suffer from Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is vital for building strong bones and promoting healthy immune systems. It has been proven to help many people manage the symptoms of depression and can even lower the risks of getting several forms of cancer, heart disease, and Type 2 Diabetes. Skin disorders and abnormalities such as psoriasis and eczema have also been linked to Vitamin D deficiency.

Overcoming Lack of Vitamin D

Though there are many reasons why someone may develop a skin disorder or other health ailments, Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most easily treatable causes. However, it is also one of the most undiagnosed and untreated reasons behind many health issues. Recently, it has been discovered that Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in almost every organ in our bodies, which makes getting the correct amount of the vitamin even more important. We need a significant amount of sun exposure on unprotected skin in order to produce enough Vitamin D. If not using sunscreen makes you nervous, try using physical sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide; they promote Vitamin D absorption while deflecting the sun’s rays.

Delight in Vitamin D

Because of the many misconceptions that are out there about sun exposure and Vitamin D, there is a pandemic of Vitamin D deficiency in the United States. To learn more about the importance of Vitamin D and how our modern lifestyles may be to blame for lack of healthy sun exposure, read this amazing article from Skin Inc. If you want to start increasing your sun exposure and amp up your Vitamin D levels but are concerned about skin damage, stop by Botanica and talk with one of our skin care experts! We can help advise on the best ways to keep skin healthy and protected.

Love,

Gen