Category: Sun safety

It is estimated that 35% of American adults and 50% of the world's population have a vitamin D deficiency. The human body has an ingenious way of producing its own vitamin D, using sunlight to trigger synthesis in the skin. However, navigating how to get enough of the 'sunshine vitamin' without risking skin damage can be confusing.

Did you know that peak sunlight hours typically occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is strongest? So, can you still get vitamin D with a hat on during this time? The good news is you can, as the majority of vitamin D synthesis happens on other parts of your exposed skin.

Despite Florida's abundant sunshine, studies show that many people, even those in sunny climates, are vitamin D deficient. Knowing precisely *how much sun for vitamin D in Florida* is crucial for maximizing the benefits of sunlight while minimizing the significant risks of skin damage and cancer.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a standard white cotton t-shirt offers a sun protection factor (UPF) of only about 5, allowing a significant amount of UV radiation to penetrate. This reality directly addresses the common misconception regarding whether you can get vitamin D through clothes. The short answer is no; your clothing is designed to block the very ultraviolet B (UVB) rays needed for vitamin D synthesis.