Vitamin D in Skincare

Summer sun benefits

It’s that time of year when we’re longing for a holiday to get that all important dose of Vitamin D. Ahhh, Vitamin D - that feeling of the sun on our skin which makes us feel instantly energised and glowing.

Did you know... In the UK from October to March, the ultraviolet light from the sun is not strong enough during the shorter, darker days to produce sufficient vitamin D levels.

What does Vitamin D do?

While we all know our bodies produce vitamin D after a little UVB ray exposure and our diet contributes to those levels as a top up, what part does our skincare play in topical application of this essential vitamin?

Vitamin D is fat-soluble so any excess can be stored in the body. It’s role is to ensure that calcium is absorbed into your body and also plays a role in your overall health.

From keeping bones, teeth and muscles healthy to supporting the immune system to protect against disease; this essential vitamin can also be found in foods such as oily fish, egg yolks, some mushrooms and fortified foods such as cereal and orange juice. Oral supplementation can also top up levels of vitamin D to maintain internal health if you don’t get enough sunlight.

Vitamin D and your skin

Decreased vitamin D levels are associated with conditions such as psoriasis, dry skin and delayed wound healing. We need it for our skin’s barrier to function normally. Recent studies into the topical application of vitamin D have shown that it may have the same anti-inflammatory effect on skin conditions where it protects and improves cell turnover. According to Dr Fabusiwa from Joyful Skin, "This is because vitamin D has antioxidant properties, which help neutralise free-radical damage (for example pollution and UV rays) and dampen down inflammation”.

The benefit of topical application is that of direct contact with the skin to penetrate into the dermis which is great news for products on the market containing vitamin D.

Vitamin D in Carrier Oils

Vitamin D can be found in a wealth of skincare ingredients, particularly carrier oils. Carrier oils generally come from fruits, nuts and seeds and contain a high vitamin and nutrient content. They can work miracles on their own as they are rich in antioxidants and keep the skin hydrated.

You may have heard of Sweet Almond Oil, which is high in protein, vitamin D and helps to boost collagen production. It’s skin softening and ideal for those with sensitive skin as it doesn’t block pores. Avocado Oil is another one to look out for, it’s heavier and thicker so those who suffer with outbreaks should stick to a lighter oil although Avocado Oil is great for dry or damaged skin.

We’re embracing the 360 approach to vitamin D; sunlight, diet and skincare must be the perfect combo to making us feel and look revitalised.

Sweet Almond oil can be found in our new Nurture Intensive Face Oil and our No.3 Smoothing Hair Oil.