Sun Safety and Vitamin D

Have you ever wondered if your vigilance with sun safety could be detrimentally affecting your little one's Vitamin D levels?

It's well known that early life sunlight exposure can increase skin cancer risk later in life, but sunlight is also the most important source of Vitamin D at all ages. So, how do Aussies (with varying skin colours and living across a wide range of latitudes) ensure that they balance their child's sun exposure with sun protection year round?

Reassuringly, several studies have shown that sunscreen use has minimal impact on Vitamin D levels over time.

Knowing about your child's Fitzpatrick skin type and the UV index may help you in striking the right balance of sun protection and sun exposure for your child.

If the UV index is above 3 - sunscreen should be worn! The free SunSmart App gives you a live UV Index update for your location.

Most Australian kids with light skin (Fitzpatrick I-IV) get enough vitamin D exposure from the sun during normal daily activities.

Aussie kids with dark skin (Fitzpatrick V- VI) need a longer time in the sun to make enough vitamin D (up to six times as long!). In the southern states, it may not be possible to maintain vit D levels with outdoor activity alone and supplements may be needed.

Does your child have other risk factors for Vitamin D deficiency?

Babies born prematurely or to mothers with vitamin D deficiency, especially if breastfed (breastmilk has minimal Vitamin D compared to formula). Mothers at risk of low Vitamin D should have their levels checked antenatally and/or during pregnancy.

Children whose skin is rarely exposed to the sun (covered clothing or excessive time indoors) or those with certain medical conditions or obesity.

It's best not to start a supplement 'just in case as too much vitamin D can also cause toxicity. Talk to your doctor first about dosage and duration of treatment.

Active outdoor play has many benefits for your little one, Vitamin D exposure being just one. Rest assured, sun safety remains vitallly important so your sunscreen battles are worth it!!