Can Sunscreen Actually Block Out Vitamin D?: Debunking the Myth

Vitamin D is often called the "sunshine vitamin." That's because your body is capable of making its own vitamin D when exposed to sunshine. UVB rays from the sun interact with skin protein 7-DHC, converting it into active vitamin D3.

Sunscreen protects your skin by blocking out the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. But you must have heard many people ask, "Does sunscreen block vitamin D from sun?" or "Does sunscreen block vitamin D absorption?"

This topic of vitamin D and sunscreen has gained considerable attention in recent years. Some suggest that sunscreen use can hinder the body's ability to produce vitamin D. But, is there truth to this claim or is it merely a myth?

Let's find out.

What are the Benefits of Vitamin D?

Before we discuss the topic, "Can sunscreen block vitamin D?" let's understand the various benefits of this essential nutrient.

Bone Health

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining strong and healthy bones. It helps in the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Without sufficient vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium efficiently. This could lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis and osteomalacia.

Immune Function

Vitamin D modulates the immune responses of the body, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. Adequate levels of vitamin D may reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases and respiratory infections.

Muscle Strength

Vitamin D may also play a role in maintaining muscle strength and reducing the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. Adequate vitamin D levels have been associated with better muscle function and decreased risk of frailty.

Regulation of Insulin Levels

There is growing evidence suggesting that vitamin D may play a role in insulin secretion and sensitivity, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Low vitamin D levels may increase the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Mood Regulation

Vitamin D may play a role in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are associated with mood regulation. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

What Are the Risks of Vitamin D Deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency can pose several risks to your health, such as the following:

Bone Health Issues

One of the primary risks of vitamin D deficiency is the weakening of bones. It could lead to conditions like osteoporosis in adults and rickets in children. Without sufficient vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium effectively. This results in soft and brittle bones prone to fractures.

Muscle Weakness and Pain

Inadequate Vitamin D levels can contribute to muscle weakness, pain, and fatigue. This can impair muscle function and increase the risk of falls, particularly among older adults.

Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases

Vitamin D deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Low Vitamin D levels have been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired immune function.

Immune System Impairment

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating immune function. Its deficiency may weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections, autoimmune diseases, and other immune-related disorders.

Mood Disorders

Vitamin D deficiency may cause mood disorders such as depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Vitamin D receptors are present in areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, and insufficient Vitamin D levels may disrupt neurotransmitter function and contribute to depressive symptoms.

What is a Healthy Level of Vitamin D?

Understanding your vitamin D status is important for maintaining optimal health. That's why you should get a vitamin D level assessment from time to time.

Here's what your vitamin D level indicates on a lab report:

• Below 30: Indicates a deficiency in vitamin D. It's important to discuss supplementation options with your doctor to address this deficiency.
• 30 to 50: Falls within a range generally considered inadequate for bone health and overall well-being. Consider discussing strategies with your doctor to improve your vitamin D intake.
• 50 and above: Reflects an adequate level of vitamin D. However, it's essential to note that more isn't necessarily better.
• 125 and above: Indicates excessively high levels of vitamin D, which may lead to adverse effects. It's crucial to avoid over-supplementation and consult your doctor for appropriate management.

Relationship of Vitamin D and Your Skin

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient. Although the body is capable of producing its own vitamin D from sunlight, you can also get vitamin D from foods like egg yolks, oily fish, and milk.

Vitamin D deficiency can cause frequent breakouts. That's because the antioxidant properties of this nutrient help prevent acne. Deficiency can also lead to changes in hormone levels, causing acne and skin rashes.

However, the good news is that you only need 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure a day to synthesize the necessary vitamin D. Beyond this, sun exposure can actually cause skin damage.

So, if you are thinking, "Does sunscreen block out vitamin D?" or "Does SPF block vitamin D?" you need not worry. The truth is, no one puts as much sunscreen. You will need to put on a very thick layer of sunscreen almost every two hours to completely block out sunrays from penetrating your skin. Even with high SPF sunscreens, a small percentage of ultraviolet rays still manage to reach your skin, which is enough for your body to make its own vitamin D.

So, the answer to your question, "Can you get vitamin D with sunscreen on?" is a resounding "Yes."

So, instead of thinking, "Can sunscreen block vitamin D?" think about all the sun damage extended sun exposure can cause. Every minute spent in the sun contributes to DNA damage, which accumulates over time and increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Unfortunately, the same UVB wavelengths responsible for vitamin D synthesis also induce sunburn and genetic mutations associated with skin cancer.

Conclusion

We hope this blog answers the question, "Can sunscreen block vitamin D?" Sunscreen does not block or impact vitamin D absorption in the body. While maintaining a healthy level of vitamin D is essential, it is equally important to prioritize sun protection for healthy skin.

So, go ahead and apply that sunscreen because now you know what to answer when someone asks, "Can sunscreen block vitamin D?"