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Sun exposure and Vitamin D
We all need vitamin D to develop strong healthy bones. The best form of vitamin D for your body is the UV radiation in sunlight.
Sensible sun protection does not put people at risk of vitamin D deficiency but there are times when it is actually important to be in the sun without protection.
How much sun is enough for vitamin D production?
Fair skinned people can get enough vitamin D in summer from a few minutes of sunlight on their face, arms and hands before 10 am or after 3 pm on most days of the week. In winter in South Australia, when UV radiation levels are below 3, people need about two to three hours of sunlight to their face, arms and hands over a week.
Is it true that some people do not make enough vitamin D?
Although most people get enough sunlight to make adequate vitamin D during their day-to-day outdoor activities there are some groups who may not make enough. This includes:
 naturally dark skinned people those who cover their skin for religious or cultural reasons the elderly babies of vitamin D deficient mothers people who are housebound or in institutional care.See your doctor if you are worried about your vitamin D level.
Find out more
Go to our Online library - Sun and skin section to find How much sun is enough. Getting the balance right - vitamin D and sun protection.
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Prevention & early detection 
