Sunlight is one of God’s special blessings. It is essential for vitamin D synthesis in the skin. But too much sun can also harm the skin. Hazards related to excessive UV exposure from tanning beds are outlined in a 30-page technical report just published by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In the United States, a million people visit tanning salons every day. Many clients are teenagers, especially females. One national survey revealed that as many as 35% of 17-year-old girls use a tanning bed.

“Avoid sunlight, it will give you skin cancer.”

You've probably heard people say it, but it isn't always good advice. Sunlight is our most important source of vitamin D. The current epidemic of Vitamin D deficiency is largely a result of avoiding healthy levels of sun exposure.

The amount of sunshine time we need in order to make enough vitamin D varies from person to person. It is affected by things like skin type, time of day and time of year. Often, just a few minutes of sunshine several times a week is enough.