There are a number of mistakes people make in regards to getting sunlight exposure to replete and maintain Vitamin D3 status.
Getting sunlight through glass
Virtually all commercial and automobile glass blocks UVB rays. As a result, you won’t be able to increase your vitamin D levels by sitting in front of a sunny window.
The solution is to simply get outside and under the sunlight.
Not getting sunlight immediately upon waking
This is loosely related to Vitamin D3 status, but most importantly, it has everything to do with aligning your circadian rhythm as nature intended it to be.
I personally get sunlight within 5 minutes of waking.
The longer you’re out there in the morning, the better.
Even on a cloudy day, you’re getting an incredible amount of natural light.
Wearing sunglasses while you’re outside
This is one of the biggest mistake I see people make, even if they’re outside a lot and get direct sunlight contact on the skin.
Sunglasses, for the most part, are a waste of money and harmful to your health since your eyes need to be exposed to natural light during the day.
I’m not telling you to stare directly at the sun here.
But since your eyes are a part of your brain, you need to get yourself used to being outside without them. This is also why a lot of people have sensitive eyes.. precisely because they always use sunglasses.
It’s the same concept as getting a tan and progressively being able to withstand more sun exposure. You must build that sollar callous.
Wearing sunscreen outside
Another culprit.
Not only do you get a big dose of carcinogenic and hormone disrupting chemicals with most conventional sunscreen, but you’re also damaging your skin’s ability to convert needed Vitamin D3.
Just as you need to start going outside without sunglasses..
You also need to stop wearing sunscreen when you’re under sunlight.
If you’re in a hot area or in the middle of summer, it’s valid to use a natural, minimal ingredient sunscreen. Ideally, you should be eating the right nutrient dense foods to make your skin more resilient and be getting routine sun exposure throughout the year.
Wearing a lot of clothing outside
The less clothing when being out in the sun, the better.
I’m aware of there being exceptions when it’s excruciatingly hot out, but as a general rule of thumb, the former applies.
Proper sunbathing involves minimal clothing, a pair of shorts/bikini.
Ideally, be out in a private area (your backyard if available) naked for a good amount of time. That way, you’ll get the most out of sunbathing.
Staying out for too long when you rarely get sunlight exposure
This is important for most people to hear.
Doing too much too soon is a health risk due to burning.
You do not want to burn your skin from excess sun exposure because that increases your chances of melanoma and other issues.
Treat the sun with respect because it’s a double edged sword.
There’s a fine balance.
I’ve written these out from top of mind. Feel free to comment any others that I may have missed below.
Much love and happy tanning,
Zaid