What Is The Best Time To Get Sunlight This Summer Without Harming Your Skin?

Sunlight is a crucial source of vitamin D, which plays a vital role in bone health, immunity, and mood regulation. However, excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature ageing, and an increased risk of skin cancer. So, when is the best time to soak up the sun without causing harm to your skin? Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health. It also supports immune function and reduces the risk of diseases like osteoporosis and certain cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight exposure on bare skin (arms and legs) a few times a week is sufficient to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.

Dr Rachna Sharma, a dermatologist, explains, "Vitamin D deficiency is becoming common, especially in urban populations where people spend most of their time indoors. Sunlight exposure in moderation is necessary, but we must be cautious about the timing and duration to avoid skin damage."

Dr Michael Holick, professor of medicine at Boston University and a leading expert on vitamin D, adds, "The best way to optimize vitamin D levels is through sensible sun exposure. Early morning sunlight provides a good balance between benefits and reduced risks."

The Best Time to Get Sunlight in Summer

Dermatologists and health experts generally recommend getting sunlight during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the harmful effects of intense UV rays. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm when UV radiation is at its peak.

Dr Richard Weller, a dermatologist and researcher at the University of Edinburgh, notes, "Sun exposure in moderation not only helps with vitamin D but also lowers blood pressure, potentially reducing heart disease risk. However, avoiding peak sun hours is key to preventing skin damage."

Risks of Overexposure to Sunlight

While sunlight is beneficial, prolonged exposure, especially during peak hours, can lead to serious skin issues such as:

How to Protect Your Skin While Getting Sunlight

If you plan to step outside for sunlight, take the following precautions:

Alternatives for Vitamin D Intake

For those who cannot get enough sun exposure due to lifestyle or skin sensitivity, vitamin D can be obtained from dietary sources such as:

Dr Susan Lanham-New, head of nutritional sciences at the University of Surrey, states, "For those in regions with limited sun exposure, dietary vitamin D and supplements are effective alternatives to maintain optimal health."

So What Is The Best Time To Get Vitamin D?The best time to get sunlight in summer without harming your skin is before 9 am or after 4 pm. These hours offer enough UVB rays for vitamin D production while minimizing the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

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