Sunlight: What You Need To Know
We’re all clued up on the downside of too much sun, if not, here’s a quick crash course:
There are two kinds of harmful rays that reach us through sunlight:
Scary stuff, but with the correct balance, can sunlight exposure be good for us?
Well, Serotonin, a hormone boosted from sunlight exposure plays a role in regulating our:
- Mood
- Social behaviour
- Appetite
- Digestion
- Sleep
- Memory
There are links between serotonin deficiency and depression. Seasonal Affective Depression (SAD) is more than just the winter blues. Lethargy, irritability, comfort eating, weight gain, headaches and sleep problems can all be indicators of SAD. Shorter winter days and longer nights (reduced sunlight exposure) can have a chemical impact on how we feel. Sunlight helps to battle back through serotonin production.
Sunlight and Skin Conditions
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises the potential benefits of using sunlight to help treat the following skin conditions:
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Jaundice
- Acne
Sunlight and Vitamin D
Sunlight (UVB rays) boosts our vitamin D production, leading to stronger bones, improved mood, healthier immune system, better sleep and a higher release of serotonin, leading to a more calm, focused mood.
Vitamin D deficiency is linked with, you guessed it, a reverse of those benefits, including:
- Weak bones, osteoporosis
- Skin and hair issues
- Depression and Anxiety
- Exhaustion – even upon waking
So, we’re all caught up on the good and the bad of getting some sun. How much sun should you get? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer, variables such as where you live, time of the year, weather and skin tone all play a role.
The World Health Organisation suggests that 5 – 15 minutes of sunlight on the arms, hands and face 2 – 3 times per week, is enough exposure to enjoy a vitamin D boost and all the tag along benefits.
Bear in mind that we want to be unprotected for this short window of time, allowing the UVB rays to stimulate vitamin D production. Anything longer than 15 minutes - be sure to apply sunscreen generously and often to avoid sun damage.
Our fantastic Young in The Sun Mango Butter Natural Sunscreen is packed full of all-natural ingredients, the star player being Zinc Oxide.
Zinc Oxide is a non-nano powder that sits on top of the skin (rather than being absorbed), creating a natural, non-toxic sunscreen. Unlike many chemical sunscreens, zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays by scattering and reflecting them. Preventing against sunburn, soothing irritation and combating the signs of photoaging.
All our Gorgeous Sunscreens are made with skin-loving ingredients in mind; Shea, Coconut Oil, Jojoba, Carrot Seed Oil, Avocado Oil and Zinc Oxide ensure our sunscreens are suitable for the most sensitive skins out there and are perfect for your little ones.
