People who are avoiding exposure to sunlight and using sunscreens assiduously are at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Sunlight (UVB) is required for vitamin D synthesis in the skin and this is essential for bone and muscle function. About 15 minutes of sunlight on unprotected skin – ideally between 11am and 3pm when UVB radiation is most intense – is all that is needed for satisfactory vitamin D synthesis.

There is still uncertainty about the ‘right’ level of vitamin D and what, if any, supplements are required. NICE guidance on this topic is expected this year. In the meantime, experts recommend vitamin D supplementation if sunscreens are used regularly (e.g. 10mcg/day).

Reflection exercise 

Consider the problems of using a high factor sunscreen on a daily basis and find out which products would be suitable.

Reflect on how you would explain the options and help a patient to select the most appropriate product.