Sun Expsoure, Skin Cancer & Vitamin D Production


  • Evidence shows that the amount of time the skin requires to be exposed to sunlight in order to produce Vitamin D is less than the time it takes to cause sunburn
  • People should be aware of their skin type and the related risk of skin cancer in order to determine how long they can safely spend under the sun before getting sunburnt
  • Because a number of factors contribute to the effects that exposure to sunlight may have on different individuals it is impractical to recommend a 'safe exposure time' applicable to everyone.
  • Some researchers advise exposing the arms and legs twice a week, at midday, for no longer than half an hour (depending on other related factors)
  • Vitamin D production by unprotected skin diminishes after 5-10 minutes of exposure, however, the risk of skin cancer continues to increase

(7,11,15,16)