The relationship between the Sun, Vitamin D, and Vitamin C
There are a lot of articles that talk about how the sun is bad and how too much sun increases the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and cancer. Although this is true, did you know that your body needs sunlight in order to get Vitamin D?
Your body actually makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight, specifically UVB rays. This is one of the main natural sources of vitamin D.
Vitamin D
- Supports bone health by helping absorb calcium
- Plays a role in immune function and mood
- Just 10-30 minutes of midday sun exposure (a few times per week) can be enough for many people, depending on skin tone, location, and season
- If you get little sun (winter, indoor lifestyle, sunscreen use), you might need a vitamin D supplement
Where does Vitamin C come in to play with this mix?
Vitamin C doesn’t come from sunlight, but being in the sun can increase your need for antioxidants. As a recap, you can get Vitamin C as either a topical moisturizer/serum or from foods like citrus, berries, peppers, and leafy greens.
Vitamin C
- Powerful antioxidant that protects cells from danger (including some damage from UV exposure)
- Supports skin health by helping product collagen
- Boosts immune function
- May help reduce some oxidative stress caused by sun exposure
How They Work Together:
- Sunlight → helps your body produce vitamin D
- Vitamin C → helps protect your body from oxidative stress (including from sun exposure)
- Both support your immune system, but through different mechanisms
Final Thought: With the summer approaching, remember sun exposure is not bad when done in moderation!