“I’m into ‘safe sunning’ because I think we are Vitamin D-deficient,” says Dr. Dhai Barr, skin care specialist and pioneer in cosmetic and regenerative aesthetics at NW Regen.
Learn about “safe sunning” and how to start!
Q: It’s true we need sunscreen to protect against the sun’s damaging UVA rays, but we also need sun exposure for its UVB rays to stimulate the body to produce Vitamin D. How can we do so safely?
Dr. Barr Answers: “We don’t really talk about how the sun is important. And we don’t get enough Vitamin D when we slather on the sunblock. So, when you have safe tanning, or safe sun exposure, you’re actually benefiting and getting some vitamin D. And the more your body is exposed, the better. So, if people are worried about aging, then put sunblock on your face. But expose your arms and your legs… and if you can, your belly and your back… more is better! High-noon sun exposure is really important. Try to get outside – even if it’s only 15 to 30 minutes. The midday sun is at its peak, so it’s really good for us. Plus, you get some exercise if you’re out walking!”
Dr. Dhai Barr describes the benefits of Vitamin D.
Q: Why is vitamin D good for us?
Dr. Barr Answers: “Vitamin D is huge! It helps with Osteoporosis; it’s anti-cancer; it helps with depression. It helps with muscle weakness. And it prevents death.”
- Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is a key building block for strong bones.
- Vitamin D is necessary for metabolic processes and is important for cell growth.
- And Vitamin D helps activate your immune system, which helps your body fight off infections.
In recent guidelines, the lab range is 30 to 40 up to 100. And so, when people are in the low 30s or 40s, they are said to be ‘normal’ however optimal dose – the healthy range – depending on what you’re trying to combat, is up around 70. We are clearly underdosed.
Especially in the northwest, we are Vitamin-D-deficient just by lack of sun! We have less sun exposure during the winter, not just because of the clouds but also because of our sunlight…. It comes up so late and goes down so early that we miss out on some of the UV rays.
We have the highest incidents of skin cancer in the United States, along with Washington. So, think about that. Vitamin D is very protective against skin cancer. Even though sun exposure can cause skin cancer, that’s why you want to be safe.”
Download: 15 Ways to Get Your 15-Minutes of Sunshine
Print this free PDF – put it by your PC or mirror to remind you to get your UVB rays today!
A pioneer in skin rejuvenation, Dr. Barr offers personalized treatments, regenerative injection therapies, neuromodulators, dermal fillers + medical facials. She sees health and vitality as the foundation of beauty and empowers patients to achieve longevity through extremely personalized treatments.
