When regular sunscreen is applied, does it show a deficiency in vitamin D?
We all know that we get vitamin D from sunlight, and that’s the best source. Yes, absolutely. There is no doubt about it because when sunlight hits our skin, the cholesterol beneath the skin produces vitamin D in our body through UVB. But again, this excessive ultraviolet radiation can be harmful to our skin, as it can cause sunburn and even skin cancer. So what should we do? Does regular sunscreen application show a deficiency in vitamin D? Let’s clear up these confusions today.
What does “vitamin D deficiency” mean?
Research has shown that we get vitamin D during Mid day, that is, between 10 am and 3 pm. Many of us have the misconception that we get vitamin D from morning sunlight. But for the skin to effectively produce vitamin D, a specific angle of sun rays is necessary. Sometimes there is less intensity of sunlight in the morning, which is not enough for vitamin D synthesis.
How long should we stay in the sun?
This time actually depends on several factors such as skin tone, location, sun ray intensity, etc. It takes a bit longer for fair skin to produce vitamin D, while it takes relatively more time for the same amount of vitamin D to be produced in darker skin. Exposure to sunlight for at least 10-30 minutes twice a week is enough for vitamin D.
How does sunscreen work?
Physical sunscreen, also known as mineral sunscreen, primarily reflects and transforms the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun to keep our skin protected. On the other hand, chemical sunscreen is a type of sunscreen that directly absorbs into the outer layer of our skin to protect the skin from harmful radiation. UVB rays primarily transform into inactive form by sunscreen.
Regular sunscreen application vs. vitamin D production
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization’s International Agency of Research on Cancer panel have stated that direct UV radiation from the sun is classified as a carcinogen, which creates cancer-causing substances in the body. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), sunscreen primarily protects our skin from these harmful rays (UVA and UVB).
Research has been conducted on whether applying sunscreen will show a deficiency in vitamin D. Short-term studies have shown that using sunscreen on the face, hands, and feet does not block the production of vitamin D on our body.
Let’s see some more opinions:
1) Professor Anthony Young from King’s College London said in his research, “Using sunscreen can prevent sunburn and skin cancer. However, it does not hinder the production of vitamin D in the body.”
2) Information published in the British Journal of Dermatology suggests that sunscreen may protect against harmful ultraviolet radiation, but it will not create any hindrance in vitamin D synthesis.
3) Some dermatologists believe that since sunscreen limits overall UVB radiation, it may slightly reduce vitamin D production in the skin. In that case, they suggest unprotected sun exposure for a short period a couple of days a week.
Most clinical studies suggest that regular sunscreen application does not lead to a deficiency in vitamin D but helps prevent various skin problems. So there’s nothing to worry about it. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), during the day, regular sunscreen must be used, which should contain:
– Titanium Dioxide
– Avobenzone
– Zinc oxide
– Octinoxate
– Oxybenzone
– Homosalate
Other sources of vitamin D:
We can get this vitamin from sources other than sun rays. For example, fish liver oil, sea fish, cheese, egg yolk, liver, mushrooms, oatmeal are very good sources of vitamin D.
Can children use sunscreen?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), sunscreen can be used from 6 months of age onwards, not before that. Babies should only be allowed to use those sunscreens which contain Titanium Dioxide and Zinc oxide. Separate sunscreens for babies are also available now.
To prevent sunburn, aging signs, uneven skin tone, and skin cancer, we must use regular sunscreen. There is no alternative to it. Along with that, maintaining a regular diet chart with foods rich in vitamin D is the best decision for staying healthy. And if there is a deficiency of this vitamin in the body, then take supplements as per the doctor’s suggestion.