We all know that we’re supposed to stay out of the sun in mid-day due to the risk of skin cancers. But does some sun actually protect the skin from damage?
That’s the hypothesis of a recent study out of Stanford University.
The protection comes from Vitamin D, which the body produces directly from the sun’s UV rays. It activates a mechanism in T cells that causes these important immune cells to migrate to the skin, where, theoretically, they boost immunity.
Many other studies suggest that Vitamin D plays a major role in preventing illnesses of all kinds. These new discoveries, in addition to a nationwide epidemic of Vitamin D deficiency, have led many researchers to advocate some exposure to the sun’s rays.
It has been recommended that 15-20 minutes daily of near full-body exposure, without sunscreen, is adequate for light-skinned people. Those who are dark skinned need four to six times more sunlight.
Have fun in the sun!