Our Dermatology Blog

Posts for tag: vitamin D

July 22, 2016
Category: Skin Care

Our bodies need vitamin D to build and maintain strong, healthy bodies. Without vitamin D, the body cannot use calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are necessary for healthy bones. One of the top sources of vitamin D is the sun; However, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) does not recommend getting vitamin D from sun exposure (natural) or indoor tanning (artificial) because ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds can lead to the development of skin cancer. Getting vitamin D from a healthy diet, which includes naturally enriched vitamin D foods, fortified foods, and beverages, and/or vitamin supplements offers a safer alternative. It is important to note that most problems with vitamin D deficiency are nutritional in nature;  And, even though sunlight IS necessary to synthesize Vitamin D, it takes only 10 minutes of morning sunlight or casual/passive sun exposure (like through your car window) to saturate these receptors.  So, tanning or prolonged exposure to sunlight will not increase your vitamin D levels more than what you are getting.

  • Dietary sources of vitamin D do not prematurely age the skin or increase the risk of developing skin cancer like sun exposure does. 
    Dietary sources (foods naturally rich in vitamin D, fortified foods, and beverages) and vitamin supplements are available year-round and can easily be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle. Good sources include fortified milk, cheeses and yogurt, fortified cereal, and oily fish like salmon and tuna. Research shows that vitamin D supplements are well tolerated, safe, and effective when taken as directed by a physician.
  • The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D is: 
    400 IU (International Units) for infants/children 0-1 yrs 
    600 IU for children, teenagers, and adults 1-70 yrs
    800 IU for adults 71+ yrs

Because the amount of vitamin D a person receives from the sun is inconsistent and increases the risk of skin cancer, the RDA was developed based on a person receiving minimal or no sun exposure.

  • People need vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health
  • Vitamin D from food and dietary supplements offers the same benefits as vitamin D obtained from the sun (UV light).


Article Source: AAD.org. For more information about this and other skin-related topics, visit AAD.org.