There is a lot of information available to us now that highlights the damage that the sun has on our skin. However, it’s becoming more and more difficult to find information highlighting the importance of sunshine and skin for our health – both physical and mental. I have always found this topic challenging, as I know that using SPF 50+ on your face especially will improve the look of your skin as you age. I also understand that skin cancers, particularly melanoma in Australia continues to be one of the leading cancers that is all too often fatal.
Sunshine and Skin conundrum
Getting information on how much sun is the right amount is very tricky. No one wants to tell people to go out in the sun, and the message of SPF all day every day, is everywhere. I never thought about SPF as a kid growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, but nowadays, platforms like tiktok are flooded with 12 year old girls spruiking their favourite sun protection products. As a parent, it is hard enough to get our kids to take what we say seriously. My worry is that there is so much fear around sun exposure, that we have forgotten that sunshine and skin are essential co-partners for biological processes and our overall well-being. This seems particularly important in Autumn as the risks of vitamin D deficiency increase.
If my kids are feeling a little off colour due to a cold, I get them to sit in the sun for 15 minutes. This small amount of sunshine and skin time greatly improves their immune function as well as lifting their spirits. If you suffer acne, or know of a teen who does, an amount of time in the sunshine works wonders in killing topical skin bacteria’s. Back acne can be cleared quite well with just a little time in the sun!
Consequences of insufficient sunshine on your skin
Vitamin D Deficiency
Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, a crucial nutrient that plays a vital role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Insufficient sunshine and skin exposure can lead to vitamin D deficiency. This may contribute to conditions such as osteoporosis, weakened immune system, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Vitamin D supplements sold in Australia are on the rise, with doctors citing an increase in vitamin D deficiencies. It is important to note that there is evidence to suggest that high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) sunscreen can reduce the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin. SPF 50 sunscreen blocks approximately 98% of UVB radiation, which is responsible for stimulating the production of vitamin D in the skin. Therefore, if you apply SPF 50 sunscreen correctly and regularly, it can significantly decrease the amount of UVB radiation reaching the skin, potentially reducing vitamin D synthesis.
Impaired Bone Health
Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralisation. Without adequate sunlight exposure, the body may struggle to maintain optimal calcium levels. Increasing the risk of bone disorders such as osteoporosis and rickets, especially in children.
Increased Risk of Certain Cancers
While excessive sun exposure is a well-known risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma, some studies suggest that limited sun exposure may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer. The exact mechanisms behind this association are not fully understood but may involve vitamin D deficiency and its impact on immune function and cell proliferation.
Mood Disorders
Sunlight exposure influences the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and helps combat depression. Insufficient sunlight, particularly during the darker months of the year, can disrupt serotonin levels and contribute to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other mood disorders.
Sleep Disturbances
Sunlight exposure helps regulate the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which governs sleep-wake cycles. Lack of exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to sleep disturbances such as insomnia and irregular sleep patterns.
Reduced Immune Function
Vitamin D plays a critical role in immune function, helping to regulate inflammatory responses and support the body’s defense against infections. Inadequate sunlight exposure may compromise immune function, making individuals more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections.
Increased Risk of Seasonal Allergies
Limited sunlight exposure has been linked to an increased prevalence of seasonal allergies, such as hay fever. Sunlight helps modulate the immune system and may reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
Risk of Certain Eye Conditions
Sunlight exposure, particularly to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can contribute to the development of certain eye conditions, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, moderate sunlight exposure is also necessary for the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle and the production of vitamin D, which can indirectly influence eye health.
Balancing Sunshine and Skin
While excessive sun exposure poses significant health risks, including skin damage and cancer, it’s essential to strike a balance and ensure adequate sunlight exposure to support overall health and well-being. Spending time outdoors, while avoiding the midday hours, and incorporating sunlight-rich foods into your diet can help mitigate the negative impacts of insufficient sun exposure. Also exposing your larger areas of skin such as your back, arms and legs rather than your face. As your face shows premature ageing so much more compared to your exteriors.
So to determine how much and when to use sun protection, it comes down to common sense. Using SPF 50+ in the middle of the day is a great idea, or stay inside during that time. Instead get your sunshine in the morning or late afternoon, when the UV index is lower. It’s also worth mentioning that many factors influence vitamin D synthesis, including the time of day, season, geographical location, skin pigmentation, and individual differences in sunscreen application. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels isn’t always easy, especially for individuals at risk of deficiency, such as the elderly and those who spend most of their time inside. Sometimes vitamin D supplements are the most sensible idea. If you have concerns about vitamin D levels, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your individual situation.
Extra benefits of Sunshine
Aside from the health benefits of the lovely sun, here are a few other things that the sun can help you with:
- Athlete’s Foot (tinea). This foot fungus can be greatly improved by going barefoot in the sun for a short time each day.
- Acne sufferers can benefit from the sun’s natural bacteria killing properties.
- Back acne can be significantly reduced by spending a short time in the sun.
- Reduce the odour of smelly shoes by leaving them in the sun.
- Leave your pillows, quilts and mattresses in the sun for the day to kill bacteria, dust and skin mites.
- Hang washing out in the sun instead of putting it in the drier or on a clothes rack inside. Your washing will smell and feel much better!
- Drink bottles with straws or drink bottle sucker tops left in the sun will be clear of bacteria, as will baby bottles, baby toys and dummies.
- Kids’ plush toys and dolly’s can be cleaned by the sun too!
So don’t be afraid – get out there (sensibly in moderation) and enjoy the health benefits of the sun!
Still not sure?
Do you need more help or would like personalised advice? Book now for your consultation with a skin care advisor. Offering information on what skin care products are best for you. Check out our range of in-clinic services today.
Otherwise fill in the Online Skin Consultation. Our skin care advisor will happily help you. Choosing the right treatments and products for your skin type or concern.
Check out our latest Specials!
Leave a Reply