Soak Up Sunshine—Safely: Boost Your Vitamin D This Summer
As summer adventures resume, this is your reminder to prioritize sunshine and Vitamin D—essential for strong bones, a resilient immune system, and neuromuscular wellness. Research even suggests Vitamin D may support the prevention or management of certain conditions, though studies continue.
Why Vitamin D Matters
When your skin gets sunlight, your body produces Vitamin D naturally. But many of us have been indoors more than usual; and Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to various health concerns like specific cancers, heart disease, and depression. At Taochemy, we care deeply about full-body health, and that includes the skin.
Smart Sun Habits for Summer Wellness
Sunlight is vital, but too much UV exposure can lead to premature aging and increased skin cancer risk. Aim for short, unprotected sun exposure first thing in the morning or late afternoon, then protect yourself with quality skincare.
Choosing Safe Sunscreens: Mineral vs. Chemical
Mineral-based sunscreens—especially those with zinc oxide—provide broad-spectrum protection and reflect UVA/UVB light. They’re widely considered safer than chemical sunscreens, which nearly 70% of currently available sunscreens still use.
Watch out for chemical ingredients like oxybenzone, parabens, retinyl palmitate, and generic “fragrance”—many of which are linked to hormonal disruption, allergic reactions, or environmental harm.
Sun-Protective Ingredients You Want (and Want to Avoid)
✅ Zinc oxide: Highly effective UVA/UVB protection
⚠️ Titanium dioxide: Effective, though some studies raise concerns
❌ Oxybenzone: Hormone disruptor still found in most U.S. sunscreens
❌ Parabens: Linked to estrogenic effects and reproductive concerns
❌ Retinyl palmitate: May increase skin lesion risk under sun exposure
⚠️ “Fragrance”: Can hide hundreds (or thousands) of untested chemicals
How Sunscreen Chemicals Enter Your Body
These chemicals don’t just sit on your skin—they can be absorbed through skin, inhaled, or unintentionally swallowed (e.g., near the lips). Spray formulations are especially risky. With mounting safety concerns, the FDA is evaluating spray sunscreens and may restrict them in the future.
Understanding SPF and UV Radiation
UVA: Deep-penetrating rays tied to aging and cancer
UVB: Causes sunburn (what SPF refers to)
UVC: Filtered out by our atmosphere
SPF only measures UVB protection. To guard against UVA damage, choose broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide.
Summer Skin & Vitamin D Tips from Taochemy
Start with a few minutes of morning sun (without sunscreen) to activate Vitamin D production.
Apply a zinc-oxide-based sunscreen before prolonged sun exposure.
Avoid chemical-heavy formulas containing oxybenzone, parabens, retinyl palmitate, and hidden fragrances.
Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak UV hours (10 am–4 pm).
By making mindful choices—like opting for clean, mineral-based sunscreen—you can enjoy the sun while protecting your skin and overall health.
Final Thoughts
At Taochemy, we believe in radiant skin sustained by conscious self-care. Opt for safe sunscreen, embrace quality Vitamin D exposure, and step into summer with confidence and care.