Can sunbathing increase vitamin D3 levels in the body?

Mar 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
In general, exposure to sunlight can increase the level of vitamin D3 in the body. Sunbathing is a simple and effective way to supplement vitamin D3; however, it is important to pay attention to the duration and method of sun exposure to avoid skin damage. When necessary, vitamin D3 can also be supplemented through diet or supplements to meet the body's needs.

Generally speaking, exposure to sunlight can increase the level of vitamin D3 in the body. The specific analysis is as follows:

Ultraviolet B rays from the sun reach the human skin and convert a substance in the skin, 7-dehydrocholesterol, into vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 undergoes further conversion in the liver and kidneys to become active vitamin D. This active vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus by the body, thus helping to maintain bone health and normal physiological functions.

Although sun exposure aids in the synthesis of vitamin D3, excessive exposure may cause skin damage. Therefore, it is recommended to engage in outdoor activities during periods when sunlight is less intense, such as from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Sunbathing through glass reduces the transmittance of ultraviolet rays, thus affecting the formation of vitamin D3; therefore, it is recommended to get sun exposure outdoors.

Sunbathing is a simple and effective way to supplement vitamin D3, but care should be taken regarding the duration and method of exposure to avoid skin damage. If necessary, it is also advisable to consider obtaining vitamin D3 through diet or supplements to meet the body's needs.