Why I take Supplements to Protect My Skin

It’s that time of the year again, summer! And with it comes a chance of sunburn. Well, depending on where you are, if you live in a location that only has summer 3-4 months out of the year.

As warmer weather approaches, it’s time to start thinking about wearing summer clothes, bathing suits, and flip flops. The time where we begin to expose large areas of our skin to increase our vitamin D intake.

A time of the year when we’re exposed to the heaviest doses of ultraviolet light as we enjoy the outdoors. This is when I start to think about getting my skin ready for the sun.

Over the last few decades, people have significantly increased their exposure to UV light. We’ve been told to lather up on sunscreen. Despite these consequences, the increase in skin cancer has risen more than ever. In fact, did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer today?

Studies have shown that what we eat may play a role in protecting our skin from ultraviolet light injury, particularly supplements.

I avoid toxic sunscreens at all costs, and even research has indicated that it often does more harm than good. The more I researched, the more I discovered that exposure to the sun isn’t the problem. It’s actually a significant health benefit if you feed your skin the proper nutrients to get your skin ready for sun exposure.

The sun isn’t the issue, so I have taken a different approach. I protect my skin from the inside out to be safe from ultraviolet light.

We can all agree that sunburns are not fun. In fact, sunburn damage is a severe health concern. If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ve probably battled the sun on more than one occasion. Redness, soreness, and blistering are just three horrible symptoms of sunburn.

Intense, repeated sun exposure that results in sunburn increases your risk of skin damage. These include wrinkles and dark spots. Sunburn usually appears within a few hours after too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Sunburn may take several days or longer to fade.

While sunscreen may protect against the discomfort of a sunburn, it doesn’t appear to do the most critical job. So how can you enjoy the benefits of sun exposure while avoiding sunburn? What if there was a better way to protect yourself from the sun without having to constantly spray or lather yourself with toxic sunscreen?

For many years, the sun was such a dilemma for me. I was born with fair skin, blue eyes, and light-coloured hair. Despite my mom’s best efforts to protect me from the sun (including lots of sunscreen lotion and wearing a hat), being outside for long periods usually resulted in me being sunburnt.

In fact, one incident started this all, and I was only 12 years old at the time. My school had a track and field event for the entire day, and me being stubborn, I decided not to wear a hat, let alone even put sunscreen on my face.

The following day I woke up to a horrifying scene. My face was so red and swollen that you couldn’t even see my eyes. It looked as if I had just stepped out of a boxing ring after a fight. It was awful and incredibly embarrassing.

It was so bad that my doctor was shocked when I went to the clinic. He had never seen that type of skin reaction caused by the sun before. Red, sore, and swollen skin continued to plague me following direct sun exposure until I discovered the benefits of supplementation.

I decided to do some research and start protecting my skin from the inside out. And it worked. Now, I even get a tan in early spring (without even trying), and I noticed that my skin no longer burns!

In fact, for someone as fair-skinned as me, I often have a bit of a tan, at least on my arms and face. So what has changed? I’ve used this technique for the past 10 years to preventatively prepare my body for sudden sun exposure when going outdoors with excellent results.

You can prevent sunburn by protecting your skin. This is especially important when you’re outside, even on cool or cloudy days. But this doesn’t mean you should always head inside either. Studies show that avoiding the sun is a significant health risk, likely due to vitamin D deficiency.

We know that having higher vitamin D levels reduces our cancer risk, including skin cancer. Moderating your sun exposure is always a good idea. But some nutrients can help us extend the amount of time we spend outside, effectively acting as an internal sunscreen, boosting our body’s natural protection against UV radiation damage.

The following nutrients and supplements have been shown to extend the period we can spend outdoors (or the intensity of radiation we’re exposed to) without getting a sunburn.

Most people aren’t even aware that diet and nutrition play a significant part in sunburn. You may not even realize that the amount of antioxidants you have in your skin also plays an essential role in your development of sunburn.

The more antioxidants you take in, the lower your risk of sunburn. Suppose you eliminate and stay away from processed foods and eat many high antioxidants, such as raw fruits and vegetables. In that case, you will find that you have increased tolerance to sun exposure and will not burn.

The sun and the sun’s UV rays are not the problems. However, since we are flooded with so many toxic products, processed foods, and fluoridated water, we no longer live a clean, natural lifestyle compared to when our ancestors worked with the sun’s rays for thousands of years instead of against the sun’s rays it.

In addition to eating a diet free of processed foods, full of organic fruits and vegetables, hormone-free meat, organic dairy & eggs, healthy fats and probiotic-rich fermented foods, did you know that you can boost your body’s natural (internal) SPF through supplementation?

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to prevent sunburn, you’re in luck. That’s because this post will reveal to you by increasing your body’s internal SPF through supplementation.

IN JUST MOMENTS, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

Why the sun isn’t the actual problem and how to get sun rays the correct way
What 7 supplements help to prevent sunburn forever
Can supplements help you tan naturally? If so, which ones?
Why not enough sun exposure is a cause for concern (Hint: vitamin D deficiency)
Which inflammatory foods you should avoid protecting your skin from potential sun damage
Why being nutritionally deficient is what’s causing you sunburn, beginning with

Other than eating healthy, some supplements can help you bridge the gap and make a massive impact on how your body uses the sun’s rays when your skin is exposed.

Every year and even year-round, I include a supplement routine regardless of when the summer season arrives and help my body prepare for the sudden change in the climate.

SOME OF THE MANY BENEFITS OF SUPPLEMENTATION INCLUDE:

Quickly getting a nice subtle tan without sunburn.
Gaining additional health benefits overall for your body
Reaping the benefits from supplements for their anti-ageing properties to maintain the elasticity for youthful, glowing skin

Imagine what it would be like never having to worry about going outside and getting swollen, red, and flaky sunburned skin ever again.

No matter where you go, whether it’s a vacation on a tropical island, going to the sandy deserts of the middle east, taking a hike on the mountains or just being outside for long periods, the concern of being sunburnt will no longer apply.

When I started taking a combination of these 7 supplements to help my body get prepared for sun exposure, the change was immediate and surprising. I never once got sunburn!

I’m excited to share how to prevent sunburn with just 7 supplements to stay safe by protecting your skin naturally from the inside out.

WHAT CAUSES SUNBURN

Sunburns can be caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) light. Ultraviolet A (UVA) is the solar radiation most associated with skin ageing (photoaging). Ultraviolet B (UVB) is associated with sunburn. Tanning beds also produce UV light and can cause sunburn.

Melanin is the dark pigment in the outer layer of skin (epidermis) that gives your skin its standard colour. When exposed to UV light, your body protects itself by increasing melanin production. The extra melanin creates the darker shade of a tan.

A suntan is your body’s way of blocking the UV rays to prevent sunburn and other skin damage. But the protection can only go so far. Many people can’t produce enough melanin to protect the skin. Unfortunately, UV light can cause the skin to burn, swell and go red.

SYMPTOMS OF SUNBURN

Sunburn symptoms and signs include:

Swelling
Blisters
Pain, itching and tenderness
Redness or pinkness
Nausea and fatigue

Any exposed part of your body, such as your scalp, lips, and earlobes, can burn. Signs and symptoms typically appear within a few hours after sun exposure. It can take up to a day or even longer to see the full extent of your sunburn.

Within a few days, your body may start to heal itself by the skin peeling. After peeling, your skin may temporarily have a distinctive colour. Sunburn may take several days or longer to heal.

RISK FACTORS

Sunburns can be a risk factor for skin damage, with melanoma closely tied to severe sunburns.

Risk factors for sunburn include:

Having fair skin, light eyes, and blonde or red hair
Smoking
Vitamin D deficiency
Working outdoors
Moles (melanoma risk)
Weakened immune system
Chemical exposure
Tanning beds

COMPLICATIONS

Extreme, repeated sun exposure that results in sunburn can increase your risk of other skin damage. This includes premature ageing of your skin (photoaging).

PREMATURE AGING OF YOUR SKIN

Repeated sunburns and sun exposure accelerate the skin’s ageing process, making you look older than you are. Skin changes caused by UV light are called photoaging. The results of photoaging include:

Dry skin
Freckles on your face and shoulders
Deep wrinkles
Red veins on your nose, cheeks and ears
Weakening of tissues in the skin, which reduces the skin’s elasticity

WHY THE SUN ISN’T THE PROBLEM

There seems to be an assumption that sun exposure equals skin cancer and sunscreen equals cancer protection. But unfortunately, research doesn’t back this up. In fact, it’s actually the opposite.

Did you know that skin cancer rates have risen despite more sunscreen use and reduced sun exposure in recent decades? We’re often warned about the dangers of UVB since they cause skin cancer, ageing, and sunburn. (source)

Sunshine is our best supplement. Why? Because when we expose ourselves to UVB light, it’s also responsible for one of our most essential health needs. When UVB from the sun hits our skin, vitamin D is synthesized.

UVB light is considered the best and most natural source of vitamin D. (source) Did you know that vitamin D from the sun can last twice as long in the body versus ingesting a vitamin D supplement. (source)

Science backs this up. In 2016 a review in the journal Dermato-Endocrinology (source) concluded that while skin cancer prevention is essential, being fearful of the sun isn’t the correct answer.

This is why I don’t avoid the sun but rather make it a point to get some sun exposure almost every day. I also avoid toxic sunscreen at all costs, and usually, I’ll wear a hat or seek shade when I’ve had enough sun exposure for the day.

GET SOME SUN RAYS THE CORRECT WAY

You should avoid sunburn from the inside out and the outside in with the support of a nutritious diet, wearing a hat and using non-toxic sunscreen. It’s best to start taking these supplements a month or two before the summer season starts and condition your skin to enjoy the sun. Not only is it essential for your health, but it can save you money on sunscreen and potentially being sunburnt.

NATURAL SUN PROTECTION

Research has shown the benefits of sun exposure and the harmful toxins found in many mainstream sunscreens. I choose a natural approach to protect myself from getting sun damage. If all possible, wearing a hat or finding shade is an excellent way of protecting yourself from excessive sun exposure if you’re prone to be sunburned.

If I’m outside in the sun for extended periods and can’t find shaded areas or even cover-ups, I’ll use natural sunscreen.

GRADUAL SUN EXPOSURE

It’s pretty simple and necessary, but a good amount of safe sun exposure has the most benefits for vitamin D levels. Sunburn is always the worst! I always get a good amount of sun exposure than I think I need at first and then slowly work my way up to avoid being sunburnt.

WHY DO I KEEP GETTING SUNBURNED?

Sunburns are caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) light. When exposed to UV light, your body naturally protects itself by increasing melanin production. That extra melanin creates the darker colour of a tan. A suntan is your body’s way of blocking the UV rays to prevent sunburn and further skin damage.

NUTRITIONALLY DEFICIENT

A poor diet can harm your skin and overall health. A nutritious, well-balanced diet can offer protection from many health problems, including the health of your skin, such as sunburn. Suppose your body lacks certain nutrients and minerals. In that case, you’re more susceptible to having specific health issues, including the state at which your skin looks.

Remember, the health of your gut is a reflection of how you look on the outside. This doesn’t just include your skin, but your hair and even your nails. Suppose your body isn’t getting enough vitamins and minerals. In that case, this means that your immune system is off-balance, and you have a higher risk of getting sunburn.

Diet and lifestyle factors that are good for the skin also have significant benefits for your overall health. I consume certain foods and supplements when preparing my skin for safe sun exposure before the summer arrives.

AVOID CERTAIN FOODS

Here are the following inflammatory foods that should be avoided to protect your skin from sun damage:

Grains (excess grains that are not soaked, sourced, or fermented)
White sugar
Processed Foods
Vegetable Oils (this is the most important for sun exposure)

HOW DO I STOP GETTING SUNBURNT?

HOW DO YOU PREVENT SUNBURN NATURALLY?

If you’re a tan seeker, it makes sense to protect yourself from the intensity of the sun. Lathering ourselves with sunscreen and finding shade when the sun is at its hottest are sensible ways, but they only do half the job.

Oddly enough, science has suggested that our ability to tan safely depends on what we eat to a certain degree. There is evidence that increasing our intake of specific foods and nutrients can help us in our journey to acquire a golden tan.

The effects of sunlight on the skin are believed to be caused by producing damaged particles known as free radicals. Free radicals that start in the body are extinguished by antioxidants found in food.

Increasing our intake of antioxidants has the potential to reduce the risk of sunburn. It can help fight long-term problems such as skin damage.

WHAT HELPS PREVENT SUNBURN?

Here are other ways to avoid getting sunburn:

Find shade
Wear sunglasses with UV protection
Wear a hat
Apply a non-toxic sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outdoors

CONSUME A REAL DIET WITH ENOUGH GOOD FATS

A significant part of why I no longer get a sunburn (natural sun protection) is eating an anti-inflammatory diet. To ensure that your body has the correct building blocks for healthy skin and reducing inflammation, consume enough healthy saturated, monounsaturated, and omega-3 fats while avoiding polyunsaturated fatty acids and high omega-6 vegetable oils.

I make sure that my diet contains a high concentration of micronutrients from vegetables, fruits, omega-3s, fish, and saturated & monounsaturated fats from animal and plant sources.

Having this type of diet is also beneficial for many other health conditions.

HERE ARE THE FOLLOWING FOODS TO CONSUME:

Leafy green vegetables
Foods rich in omega-3s (fish)
Monounsaturated and saturated fats (healthy sources)

Have you ever heard that eating straight tomato paste is excellent for sun protection? This is due to lycopene. (source) Red produce is rich in these beneficial phytochemicals.

Lycopene is known to have photo-protective attributes. It becomes more bioavailable, so tomatoes are considered healthier when cooked.

Other red produce items such as red bell peppers, goji berries, and hibiscus are excellent sunscreen foods!

DO ANTIOXIDANTS PREVENT SUNBURN?

Polyphenols are antioxidant molecules found in everyday foods such as grape seeds, chocolate, wine, and green tea.

Current research and evidence suggest that polyphenols may be an effective source of skin protection and prevent sunburns as polyphenols decrease the damaging effects of ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation on the skin.

Overall, there is evidence-based on several studies that polyphenols may protect against UV damage and sunburn and benefits skin health.

Ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays can damage the skin. Skin can also age prematurely due to UVA and/or UVB light exposure. The skin begins to lose elasticity and appears to cause wrinkles. However, polyphenols may provide a solution to protecting the skin from UVB radiation.

EAT ANTIOXIDANTS

Suppose you avoid grains and focus on healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables instead. In that case, your diet will be higher in antioxidants than the standard western (American) diet. Even healthy foods such as berries and dark chocolate are full of antioxidants.

Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and free radicals in the body, which affect your overall complexion. Research has indicated that antioxidants have a strong positive effect against skin damage and inflammation.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR SUNBURN

Beta Carotene
Green Tea Extract
Grape Seed Extract
Astaxanthin
Omega-3 Fish Oil
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Vitamin D

SUPPLEMENTS FOR SUN PROTECTION

7 SUPPLEMENTS THAT PREVENT SUNBURN

I have taken this combination of vitamins not only 8 weeks before the beginning of summer, but I take these supplements every day to maintain youthful skin.

For the last 8-10 years, I have been taking these supplements, and every summer, I did not burn at all. I would quickly begin to get a tan, and before I took my vitamins, I would get severely sunburnt.

There is no standard recommended dosage, so you can determine the right dose by reading the labels on the supplement bottles.

WHAT VITAMIN HELPS PREVENT SUNBURN?

All year round, especially before the summer starts, I typically take a specific regimen of supplements to help reduce inflammation and prevent sunburn.

I’m not a doctor or a dermatologist, and I’m only sharing the supplements I personally take and why. You may want to check with your doctor before making any health or supplement changes, especially if you have any medical conditions.

BETA CAROTENE

One antioxidant that plays a particular role in skin protection is beta carotene. A great approach is to eat various rich and colourful fruits and vegetables. Foods high in beta carotene include carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, cantaloupe, and mangoes.

However, additional supplementation with beta carotene may provide a convenient way of receiving protection from this nutrient.

Beta carotene has been known to protect against sunburn, and many people already take beta carotene as a sun protectant. Studies have suggested that it’s necessary to build up protection by supplementing within a minimum of 8-10 weeks. Research has indicated that you may want to take 30 mg each day during the summer.

Another great combination to add with beta carotene is vitamin E. A new study suggests that beta carotene and vitamin E supplements can help prevent sunburn.

Dietary sources of vitamin E include green leafy vegetables and nuts. Both supplements indicate that vitamin E may complement the protective effect of beta carotene. A group of researchers decided to experiment with its protective effects, both individually and in combination with vitamin E. This study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

GREEN TEA EXTRACT

Polyphenols in green tea, specifically EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), are protective against damage from the sun. Green tea extract prevents overriding of the immune system during sun exposure.

Studies have shown a correlation between green tea consumption and a decreased risk of cancer, skin protection from ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and the prevention of free radical damage.

Besides protecting against cancer, this also can prevent the sagging of the skin that ages us so quickly. Researchers estimate the equivalent dosage in humans would be three to six cups a day of green tea.

GRAPE SEED EXTRACT

Grape seed extract contains resveratrol and proanthocyanidins, and other powerful antioxidants. Research shows that when grape seed extract is taken orally before UV light exposure, the compounds may have a sunscreen effect on your skin, helping reduce redness and damage to skin cells.

Grape seeds are a great source of vitamins C and E, and antioxidants are known as flavonoids, all of which improve your skin’s texture and reduce the signs of ageing.

Aside from causing sunburns, UV light also ages the skin. Antioxidants in grape seeds, vitamin C in particular, may help reverse or reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Research showed that a group of healthy females volunteered. During a study, they found that grape seed extract in combination with other ingredients can help to reduce the severity of sunburn.

ASTAXANTHIN

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that research shows acts as an internal sunscreen (source). It is ten times more potent than vitamin E. It’s also considered an anti-ageing supplement.

This means that it can help protect your skin throughout the dermal layers from the free radical damage responsible for the skin ageing process. Plus, astaxanthin helps to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. It improves the elasticity of your skin by providing healthy skin function.

So it would be fair to say that astaxanthin is an excellent supplement to prevent sunburn and even promote tanning. It can take up to about 2-4 weeks to build up a sufficient amount of sun protection.

DOES ASTAXANTHIN PREVENT SUNBURN?

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Astaxanthin is a highly potent ingredient, and that consuming astaxanthin by supplementation can prevent damage to the skin caused by exposure to UV light. Astaxanthin creates another layer of protection that supports skin health over time.

Astaxanthin can reduce skin damage caused by the sun. Consuming astaxanthin for about 10 weeks can reduce redness and loss of skin moisture caused by UV rays.

Research shows that taking astaxanthin improves how quickly the skin bounces back (skin elasticity) and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. It also appears to improve the moisture content in the skin. Other studies have found that taking astaxanthin enhances the appearance of wrinkles.

CAN YOU TAKE ASTAXANTHIN EVERY DAY?

Studies have found that astaxanthin has been used safely on its own in doses of 4 to 40 mg for up to 12 weeks or 12 mg daily for 6 months. It’s even been used with other vitamins and minerals at 4 mg daily for up to 12 months.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS FROM ASTAXANTHIN?

As with any supplement you’re taking, the extent to which you’ll notice an effect really depends on the nutrient levels and status of the individual at the time. However, research on astaxanthin suggests that within four weeks, you’ll see positive effects.

OMEGA-3 FISH OIL

DOES FISH OIL PREVENT SUNBURN?

While the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are very well known, it turns out that these fatty acids are also great for protecting your skin against sun damage. Looking at how omega-3 works in the body, there are several reasons why omega-3 could help protect your skin from sun damage.

There are two kinds of omega-3s – Eicosapentenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). There is evidence that fish oil, specifically EPA, helps prevent the immune system from collapsing when exposed to too much sun.

Omega-3 helps regulate skin inflammation. If your skin is exposed to too much sunlight, you risk getting a sunburn. A sunburn is an inflammatory reaction characterized by swelling and redness. Since omega-3s help prevents inflammation, they are essential for reducing sunburn.

In two separate studies, fish oil supplements were found to protect the skin from harmful UV rays of the sun.

In just one month, they discovered that a group of volunteers were noticeably less likely to burn than before taking the fish oil, increasing to around 35% less likely in three months. After six months, the other group who suffered sun allergies doubled their skin’s defence against UV rays.

Bottom line: It’s essential to have a sufficient amount of omega-3, which is crucial to keeping your skin healthy by preventing painful sunburns.

HOW AND WHY TO USE COD LIVER OIL TO PREVENT SUNBURN

Sunscreens are supposed to act as a barrier to protect us from sunburn and skin cancer, yet these products contain toxic chemical ingredients. Cod liver oil provides a great alternative and nourishes the body in many different ways.

Can taking cod liver oil help us absorb more vitamin D from the sun and reduce our risk of sunburn? Well, believe it or not, cod liver oil has been linked to reduced cancer risk. Like those contained in cod liver oil, increasing your intake of EPA fats may reduce skin cancer. (source)

There’s only a few dietary sources of vitamin D from the following foods: egg yolks, cheese, tuna, mackerel, salmon, and of course, cod liver oil. Cod liver oil leads all of these foods, giving the most vitamin D in one serving. (source)

Suppose you’re supplementing cod liver oil and avoiding toxic sunscreens while taking in the sun. In that case, you’re increasing your vitamin D intake while also reducing your risk of skin cancer.

HOW DOES COD LIVER OIL WORK TO PREVENT SUNBURN?

If you easily burn, it may signify fatty acid deficiency. The correct balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fats help our bodies to absorb vitamin D from the sun while resisting sunburn.

Cod liver oil that’s rich in fatty acids feeds our skin. Our skin uses these fats to protect itself from the sun. Unlike toxic sunscreens, fatty acids do not block out the sun.

Cod liver oil is also anti-inflammatory. By reducing inflammation, fatty acids prevent further damage to skin cells. The benefits of cod liver oil build in our bodies over time. Using cod liver oil on the day, you decide to receive sun protection will not be effective. Instead, it’s best used over time.

Cod liver oil is also high in vitamin A. Vitamin A plays an essential role in preventing skin cells and cancer ageing. (source)

What about other supplements? Magnesium has also been shown to increase the skin’s protective layer. By taking a magnesium supplement at night, in addition to vitamin D, helps our bodies to absorb magnesium. (source)

WHICH IS BETTER, FISH OIL OR COD LIVER OIL?

Fish oil and cod liver oil are two different supplements. They come from various sources of fish and have their own unique benefits. The health benefits of cod liver oil and fish oil come from their high omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids support many body areas and may prevent various ailments. The human body can’t produce its own omega-3 fatty acids, which is why you need to include them in your diet.

The fatty acids found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These omega-3 fatty acids are the ‘good oils’ that everyone needs to include in their diet. If you aren’t eating 2-3 servings of non-fried fish per week, you may want to start taking fish oil or cod liver oil supplements for their benefits.

Thirty per cent of fish oil is pure omega-3 fatty acids, which is especially helpful in areas such as skin health. Whereas cod liver oil contains high levels of EPA and DHA and vitamins A and D.

The benefits of cod liver oil are proved to be from its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. (source) The unique strengths of cod liver oil versus fish oil are vitamins A and D.

It’s likely best to take only fish oil or cod liver oil, but not both together. Both oils benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, but cod liver oil has added vitamins A and D.

You can take the cod liver oil if you want those extra vitamins. Just take the fish oil if you don’t want those different vitamins. You can also take fish oil and vitamin A and D supplements if you want the benefits from those two vitamins but don’t want to take cod liver oil.

So what’s the takeaway? If you want to experience the protective benefits of omega-3 for your skin, just know that fish oil and cod liver oil supplements are the keys to preventing sunburn.

VITAMIN C

DOES VITAMIN C PREVENT SUNBURN?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant known for its anti-ageing and brightening benefits. Still, studies have indicated that it also works as a protectant against sun damage. Sunscreen can protect the skin from the sun’s UV rays. However, adding vitamin C into your skincare regimen can save you even more.

DOES VITAMIN E PREVENT SUNBURN? VITAMIN C AND E COMBINATION

Other antioxidant nutrients worth taking as a combination are vitamin C and E. Vitamin C and Vitamin E provide great benefits against sunburn.

A study found that 12 people who took 2000 g of vitamin C and 1000 IU of vitamin E for 10 days resulted in a moderate decrease in skin reddening induced by ultraviolet light. It would appear that vitamin C and E took each day can protect your skin from sunburn.

VITAMIN D

Your body makes vitamin D when sunlight hits the skin. You can also get vitamin D from food or by taking a supplement.

A small new study found that high doses of vitamin D may prevent the redness and swelling associated with sunburn. Vitamin D is a vitamin that most people don’t get enough of. In fact, it has been estimated that more than 40% of American adults have a vitamin D deficiency. (source) Getting enough sunlight is very important for maintaining optimal vitamin D levels.

Several factors can influence a person’s vitamin D levels. Here are four important ones:

1. Use of sunscreen – Sunscreen prevents sunburn by blocking UVB light. Very few people put on enough sunscreen to block all UVB light or use sunscreen not consistently. Therefore the sunscreen’s effects on vitamin D may not be that important.

2. Age – Compared to younger people, older people have lower levels in the skin that UVB light converts into vitamin D.

3. Location – If you live farther up north, for example, in northern Canada and the United States, including the east coast between October and March, you’ll make little if any of vitamin D due to the lack of sunlight during the cold winter months. The further away from the equator you live, the less vitamin D your body produces. Shorter days with a lack of sunlight limit UVB exposure.

4. Skin Color – Melanin is the substance in the skin that makes it dark. To kick start the body’s vitamin D production, it competes for UVB with the substance found in the skin. As a result, people with darker complexions tend to require more UVB exposure than people with lighter skin to create the same amount of vitamin D.

WHAT VITAMIN DOES THE SUN GIVE YOU?

Vitamin D comes from the sun, and there’s a good reason. When you expose your skin to sunlight, it creates vitamin D from cholesterol. The sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays contact the cholesterol in your skin cells, providing the energy for vitamin D synthesis to occur. You would need to expose lots of skin to the sunlight to make enough.

Vitamin D provides many roles in the body and is essential for excellent health. (source) A great example would be that vitamin D directs the cells in your gut to absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are two minerals that are essential for maintaining healthy and strong bones. (source)

However, low vitamin D levels have been linked to severe health problems, including:

Cancer
Muscle weakness
Osteoporosis
Depression

In addition, only a handful of foods contain significant amounts of vitamin D. These include salmon, egg yolks, sardines, tuna, swordfish, and cod liver oil. Basically, you would need to eat them almost every day to get enough vitamin D.

If you’re not getting enough sunlight, it’s recommended that you take a supplement like cod liver oil. A tablespoon (14 g) of cod liver oil contains more than three times the recommended daily amount of vitamin D. (source)

DOES VITAMIN D HELP PREVENT SUNBURN?

There really is no substitute for wearing sunscreen. However, a new study suggests that high doses of vitamin D also prevent the swelling and redness associated with sunburn.

WHY IS NOT ENOUGH SUN EXPOSURE A CAUSE FOR CONCERN?

A vitamin D deficiency results from a lack of exposure to the sun which has become a severe health issue. Lack of vitamin D is a significant risk for potential illnesses. (source) This is why when you go out into the sun, you usually feel great!

However, if we’re covered in toxic sunscreen, how do we receive enough vitamin D? (source) That’s why it’s essential to get as much sun as possible, take your daily supplements, including cod liver oil which is known as the best dietary source of vitamin D.

VITAMIN D AND SUNLIGHT

Vitamin D is considered an essential nutrient. Vitamin D is found in fatty fish, eggs, and cheese. However, the body’s primary source of vitamin D is the sun. Our skin contains a compound called 7-Dehydrocholesterol. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, this compound produces vitamin D-3.

Vitamin D supplements are an alternative for people who cannot receive vitamin D through a lack of sunlight exposure and a poor diet. Research has suggested that high doses of vitamin D supplements may do more than just boost vitamin D levels.

VITAMIN D ACTIVATES SKIN REPAIR

Research has suggested that vitamin D can help to reduce inflammation of the skin caused by sunburn. (source) They discovered that the subjects who received vitamin D experienced a reduction in skin inflammation. They also found that the highest doses of vitamin D led to decreased skin redness and swelling.

It’s fair to say that vitamin D helps promote a protective barrier in the skin by rapidly reducing inflammation and activating skin repair genes. Researchers also discovered how vitamin D aids skin repair.

The results suggest vitamin D increases skin levels of an anti-inflammatory enzyme called arginase-1. This enzyme enhances tissue repair after damage and helps activate other anti-inflammatory proteins.

The results indicate that vitamin D supplementation can be an effective treatment for preventing sunburn.

WHAT SUPPLEMENTS HELP TAN?

L-TYROSINE

Other minerals can help your skin by producing melanin. This pigment darkens your skin during tanning and acts as a natural sunscreen.

Melanin is created from an amino acid known as L-tyrosine. Taking 1000-1500 mg each day as a supplement can help your body tan naturally.

Certain nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6 and copper can help convert L-tyrosine into melanin.

I typically take 50 mg of vitamin B6, 2000 mg of vitamin C, and 4 mg of copper every day. It does seem to increase my chances of tanning faster while at the same time reducing the risk of sunburn.

DOES VITAMIN E HELP TAN?

A study found that 2000 g of vitamin C and 1000 IU of vitamin E taken each day appeared to protect the skin from sunburn.

In addition to other nutrients, this can help the skin by producing melanin. This pigment darkens the skin during tanning and acts as a natural sunscreen.

WILL TAKING VITAMIN D HELP ME, TAN?

Scientific studies have indicated that vitamin D may protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) sunlight damage.

This happens when sufficient vitamin D levels in the skin’s cells increase the skin’s ability to withstand UV exposure. A natural vitamin D tan can only occur when your vitamin D levels are optimal. If you increase your vitamin D levels through supplementation, not only will you improve your overall health, you might just get a tan.

DOES COD LIVER OIL HELP YOU TAN?

The benefits of taking cod liver oil build up in the body over time. If you wish to receive sun protection, using it a few days before going outdoors will not be effective. It’s best used over time. It will help the body process sun exposure in the least negative way towards the skin.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON SUPPLEMENTS PREVENTING SUNBURN

You now know everything you need to know about preventing sunburn with supplements. And if you take all the supplements outlined above, you might just get results like myself. You even discovered that regular sun exposure is the most natural way to get enough vitamin D.

Factors that can affect your ability to make vitamin D from sunlight may include the time of day, how much you expose your skin to sunlight, whether you’re wearing natural sunscreen, and if you are nutritionally balanced by consuming healthy foods and supplementation.

Suppose you’re also planning on staying in the sun for a while. In that case, it’s essential to apply non-toxic sunscreen for unprotected sun exposure to help prevent sunburn and skin cancer.

However, a word of warning – just knowing how to put on sunscreen isn’t always going to protect you from getting sunburn.

You see, I used to be just like you. I would quickly get sunburn every time I would go into the sun. I really hated when my skin would swell up and turn red. And I just wished that I could get rid of this problem.

After taking supplements for several months of dealing with the possibility of getting sunburn, I finally decided to turn things around. That’s when I chose to start taking particular vitamins to prevent sunburn.

I began by taking the following supplements outlined above consistently. And soon, I never once got sunburn ever again.

The key is that you need to take action on what you just learned. And that’s why I encourage you to review the supplements and then start implementing them into your daily routine right away.

TO THAT END, LET’S QUICKLY RECAP THE HIGHLIGHTS:

You learned what inflammatory foods to avoid to protect your skin from sun damage.
You found out that taking supplements like L-tyrosine, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and copper can help convert L-tyrosine into melanin which is the pigment that darkens your skin during tanning and acts as a natural sunscreen making it easier than ever to get a tan.
You discovered why you should never avoid the sun but rather make it a point to get sun exposure almost every day to maintain excellent health by soaking in natural vitamin D.

Bottom line: you now know exactly how to prevent sunburn and easily tan. So, your next step is easy – take action on what you just learned. Because the sooner you do, the sooner you’ll start enjoying the sun and have beautiful tanned, glowing skin!! If I can do this, then you can too. I know it.

A TINY REQUEST: IF YOU LIKED THIS POST, PLEASE SHARE THIS?

Ready to enjoy the sun without the fear of being sunburnt by trying out a few supplements? Then take action on what you just learned – you’ll be glad you did! Be a good friend and share this post on social media.

Also, share this post with your family and friends! Just think how good you’ll feel when your friends thank you for bringing them insight and some surprising discoveries about the sun, their skin, and preventing sunburn!

Most people don’t share because bloggers don’t need their “tiny” social share. But here’s the truth…

I built this blog piece by piece, one small share at a time, and will continue to do so. So thank you so much for your support, my reader.

A share from you would seriously help a lot with the growth of this blog.

Some great suggestions:

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It won’t take more than 10 seconds of your time. The share buttons are right here.:)

Thank you so much!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will earn an affiliate commission if you click and/or purchase through the link (at no extra cost to you). And of course, I only recommend products I’ve used from companies I completely trust and love. For more information, please see my disclosure.

Medical Disclaimer: This information provided on Emmys Beauty Cave is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified healthcare provider. Emmys Beauty Cave is not liable for how the information is used and cannot be held responsible or guarantee any results. You alone are solely and personally responsible for the results. Your success depends primarily on your own effort, motivation, commitment, and follow-through. Emmys Beauty Cave is simply serving as a coach, mentor, and guide to help you reach your own health and wellness goals through simple holistic remedies and healthy lifestyle changes.

Did you know you can prevent and decrease your chances of getting sunburn naturally by increasing your body’s internal SPF through supplementation, even before sun exposure?

It’s that time of the year again, summer! And with it comes a chance of sunburn. Well, depending on where you are, if you live in a location that only has summer 6-7 months out of the year.