The sun is the center of our solar system and the driver for all life on Earth. For many of us, seeing more of the sun in the Spring and Summer months lifts our mood and spirits. Vitamin D, a very important hormone for bone, immune and neurological health, is made when the sun’s rays are in direct contact with the skin, which means that getting out in the sun can very much be a health promoting practice.
Vitamin D is made when the sun’s rays are in direct contact with the skin.
But like most things in life, too much exposure can be problematic because the sun’s powerful ultraviolet rays can be damaging to the body.
The main health concerns associated with excessive sun exposure include sunburn, premature skin aging, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Did you know that skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the US? While sunshine offers many important health benefits, the goal is to enjoy it safely and avoid burning.
If you’ll be spending extended time outdoors – especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest – seek shade when possible and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight protective clothing. Individuals with fair skin, a history of frequent sunburns, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer should take extra precautions.
When additional protection is needed, choose a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher. Many people prefer mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients provide effective UV protection and have a well-established safety profile. Chemical sunscreens often include dangerous toxins like oxybenzone that the FDA now deems potentially hazardous and has requested additional research. Lotion or stick formulations are better than aerosol sprays, which may be inhaled during application.
If you do end up with a sunburn, cool the skin as soon as possible and stay well hydrated. Applying aloe vera gel – either store-bought or homemade by blending the inner gel of an aloe leaf with a little water – can help soothe the skin. Vitamin E oil may also provide additional moisture and comfort as the skin recovers.
If you’re concerned about getting enough vitamin D while limiting sun exposure, talk with your healthcare provider. A simple blood test can determine your vitamin D status, allowing you to supplement only if needed.
Your primary care provider at Siskiyou Vital Medicine can also evaluate any skin changes you’re concerned about and perform a comprehensive skin check, including areas that are difficult to examine yourself, such as your back. If needed, we can refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation.
And if years of sun exposure have left your skin showing signs of aging, uneven tone, or sun damage, ask us about NEOGEN® Plasma Skin Regeneration. This advanced treatment stimulates your skin’s natural renewal process to improve texture, pigmentation, and overall skin health – with minimal downtime.
From all of us at Siskiyou Vital Medicine, we wish you a healthy, safe, and joy-filled summer in the sunshine.