{"id":25240,"date":"2023-05-01T07:48:13","date_gmt":"2023-05-01T11:48:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/?p=25240"},"modified":"2023-05-01T07:48:13","modified_gmt":"2023-05-01T11:48:13","slug":"announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/","title":{"rendered":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations!"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><em>From GrassrootsHealth<\/em><\/p>\n<h4>Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms<\/h4>\n<div>\n<h3>Key Points<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation<\/li>\n<li>Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people<\/li>\n<li>Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0<em>Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz<\/em>\u00a0today!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/project\/harness-the-power-of-the-sun\/\">sensible sunshine exposure<\/a>\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/sun-is-good-for-you-you-may-live-longer-study-finds\/\">helping people live longer<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type<\/h3>\n<p>Last May, during\u00a0<em>Sunshine Month<\/em>, we covered information shared in a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/events\/detail\/2022\/02\/17\/default-calendar\/webinar-striking-a-balance-harms-and-benefits-of-sun-exposure\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">webinar presentation<\/a>\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/african-americans-much-deficient-vitamin-d\/\">higher risk of vitamin D deficiency<\/a>, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation.<\/p>\n<p>In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people.<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.assc.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sun-Exposure-Summit-PositionStatement_V1.10.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">recommendations<\/a>\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0<strong>After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.assc.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sun-Exposure-Summit-PositionStatement_V1.10.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">recommendations<\/a>\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia.<\/p>\n<h3>Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure<\/h3>\n<p>According to the new position statement<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0<strong>exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits<\/strong>. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D!<\/p>\n<p>The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/announcing-major-change-sunshine-recommendations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><i>SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.<\/i><\/p>\n<p><i>\u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.<\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms Key Points Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":25242,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25240","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms  Key Points   Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation  Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people  Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today!  Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation.  In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d  Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D!  The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun.  Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth.   SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms  Key Points   Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation  Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people  Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today!  Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation.  In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d  Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D!  The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun.  Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth.   SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1360\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1180\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\"},\"headline\":\"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations!\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\"},\"wordCount\":958,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\",\"name\":\"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00\",\"description\":\"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms Key Points Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today! Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation. In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D! The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun. Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth. SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business. \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg\",\"width\":1360,\"height\":1180,\"caption\":\"Group of multiracial happy friends together with thumbs up - Concept of international friendship and success against racism and multiethnic social barriers\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations!\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan News\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"width\":500,\"height\":164,\"caption\":\"Smart Tan\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/SmartTan\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\",\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"smarttannews\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/author\/smarttannews\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News","description":"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms  Key Points   Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation  Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people  Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today!  Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation.  In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d  Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D!  The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun.  Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth.   SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News","og_description":"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms  Key Points   Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation  Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people  Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today!  Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation.  In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d  Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D!  The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun.  Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth.   SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.","og_url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/","og_site_name":"Smart Tan News","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan","article_published_time":"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1360,"height":1180,"url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"smarttannews","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@SmartTan","twitter_site":"@SmartTan","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"smarttannews","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/"},"author":{"name":"smarttannews","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819"},"headline":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations!","datePublished":"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/"},"wordCount":958,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg","articleSection":["News"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/","name":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations! - Smart Tan News","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg","datePublished":"2023-05-01T11:48:13+00:00","description":"From GrassrootsHealth Launching into May\u2019s Sunshine Month \u2013 New, individualized recommendations are based on skin type, replacing the message of the last few decades which has shunned the sun, saying to cover up and beware of its harms Key Points Individuals with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people Calculate your risk of having low vitamin D status based on supplementation, sunshine and UVB exposure; take the\u00a0Vitamin D Deficiency Risk Assessment Quiz\u00a0today! Current public health recommendations have advised against sunshine exposure because it has been associated with an increased risk for skin cancer. While true for people with fair skin and a history of repeated sun burns, for the majority of the population,\u00a0sensible sunshine exposure\u00a0(in proper doses, without burning) has a positive impact on health and may protect against disease, even\u00a0helping people live longer. Australia is the First Country to Update Sun Exposure Recommendations based on Skin Type Last May, during\u00a0Sunshine Month, we covered information shared in a\u00a0webinar presentation\u00a0by the World Health Organization. In this presentation, Dr. Rachel Neale discussed the benefits of sunshine exposure, most notably the production of vitamin D, with an emphasis on how the balance of benefits and harms differs by skin type. She pointed out how those with darker skin are at lower risk for skin cancer but\u00a0higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, while those with lighter skin have a higher tendency to burn and a higher risk of skin cancer, yet sun avoidance will require vitamin D supplementation. In this same presentation, Dr. David Whiteman helped to clarify why there is such a difference, stating that darker skin \u201crenders an SPF equivalent to about 60 or more.\u201d Based on this data, Australia is now recommending updated sunshine exposure guidelines! Australia (2023) has become the first country to provide guidelines for sun exposure based on skin type, officially recommending increased sun exposure for darker skinned people. Published at the end of March, 2023, these\u00a0recommendations\u00a0revolve around a risk-benefit scenario based on an individual\u2019s skin type.\u00a0After 50 years of sun exposure advice being based on white Caucasian skin, this individualized approach to sunshine recommendations is a huge step forward!\u00a0\u00a0The\u00a0recommendations\u00a0are endorsed by the Cancer Council Australia, Skin Cancer College Australasia, Australasian College of Dermatologists, Healthy Bones Australia, The Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Melanoma Patients Australia, and MS Australia. Vitamin D Status Can be an Indicator of Having Received Sufficient Sun Exposure According to the new position statement \u201cAvoiding the sun and using dietary sources and\/or vitamin D supplements to meet vitamin D requirements may seem an attractive solution. However,\u00a0exposure to UV radiation may have benefits independently of vitamin D, particularly for the immune system, with adequate vitamin D status being an indicator of having received sufficient sun exposure to obtain other benefits. Further, exposing the eyes to longer wavelengths in sunlight reduces the risk of myopia, influences circadian rhythm, and improves sleep and mood. Aside from the direct benefits of sunlight, spending time outdoors facilitates physical activity, which plays a vital role in maintaining health and well-being. Thus completely avoiding sun exposure is not optimal for health.\u201d The body is designed to produce vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation from sunshine. The vitamin D level is therefore often used as a measurement for adequate sun exposure, and especially for those who don\u2019t supplement with vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can also indicate \u201csunshine deficiency.\u201d However, it is important to keep in mind that there are many benefits to sunshine exposure beyond vitamin D! The new recommendations are tailored according to unique differences between three specific groups, based on skin type, risk of skin cancer, and risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those at high risk of skin cancer (individuals with very pale skin and\/or olive\/pale brown skin but with other risk factors) are advised to be more cautious with sunshine exposure and increase intake of vitamin D with diet and\/or supplements. Those at low risk of skin cancer (individuals with constitutively dark skin) are advised to spend more time outdoors when the UV index is 3 or higher, with ample skin exposed. They suggest using sun protection only if spending extended amounts of time in the sun, after first exposing the skin without protection, making sure not to burn. Individuals in between these two groups, with an intermediate risk of skin cancer (such as those with olive or pale brown skin and no other risk factors), are advised be more cautious and tailor their sun protection according to the UV index and time in the sun. Click here to read more from GrassrootsHealth. SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business. \u00a9 2023 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Sunshine-month-5-1-23.jpg","width":1360,"height":1180,"caption":"Group of multiracial happy friends together with thumbs up - Concept of international friendship and success against racism and multiethnic social barriers"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/announcing-sunshine-month-and-a-major-change-in-sunshine-recommendations\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Announcing Sunshine Month and a Major Change in Sunshine Recommendations!"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/","name":"Smart Tan News","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization","name":"Smart Tan","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png","width":500,"height":164,"caption":"Smart Tan"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan","https:\/\/x.com\/SmartTan"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819","name":"smarttannews","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"smarttannews"},"url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/author\/smarttannews\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25240","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25240"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25240\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25246,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25240\/revisions\/25246"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25242"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25240"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25240"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25240"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}