Sunscreen vs Vitamin D: Should You Really Avoid the Sun?
Sunlight helps regulate our sleep, boosts mood, and enables the production of vitamin D, essential for bone and immune health.
☀️ The Myth: Sunscreen Blocks All Vitamin D Production
You may have heard: “Sunscreen prevents your skin from making vitamin D!”
“Studies show that sunscreen use does not significantly affect vitamin D levels in most people.” – Lab Muffin Beauty Science
🧬 The Science: Why Sunscreen Doesn’t Block It Completely
- Applied liberally (2mg/cm²)
- Evenly spread
- Reapplied every 2 hours
Most people under-apply sunscreen or miss spots, allowing some UVB to reach the skin and produce vitamin D.
“There is no evidence that regular sunscreen use leads to vitamin D deficiency.” – American Academy of Dermatology
⚖️ The Real Risk: Too Much Sun, Not Too Little
- Skin cancer (especially melanoma)
- Premature aging (wrinkles, sun spots)
- Hyperpigmentation (especially for melanin-rich skin)
90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by UV exposure.
🌿 Safer Ways to Maintain Vitamin D
- Brief unprotected sun exposure: 5–15 mins on arms or legs, a few times per week
- Vitamin D-rich foods: salmon, tuna, egg yolks, fortified milk/juice/cereal
- Supplements: consider vitamin D3 if deficient (ask your doctor)
✅ The Bottom Line
You don’t have to choose between protecting your skin and staying healthy.
- Wear sunscreen
- Get moderate sun
- Eat well and supplement as needed
SPF is your friend, not your enemy.