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Vitamin D and Skin Health

SkinStore Editors
Writer and expert9 years ago
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The “sunshine” vitamin, also known as Vitamin D, is extremely important for skin health.  Vitamin D is well-known for its role in calcium absorption.  We know that physically, Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, osteomalacia, skeletal diseases, metabolic disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease and many others.  It also affects skin conditions, including acne and psoriasis, both of which can be caused by an insufficient amount of vitamin D. While hormonal balance and overall hygiene are causes of acne, a poor immune system due to low amounts of vitamin D in your system can also increase oil production in your skin cells. Acne forms when the sebaceous glands are clogged and these blocked, oil-producing cells lead to the unsightly blemishes that can afflict you at any time in your life. Sun exposure raises your vitamin D levels as your skin releases a chemical that produces vitamin D. This reduces the amount of bacteria in your system by boosting your immune system, reducing the level of acne. For skin conditions like psoriasis, Vitamin D plays a crucial role.  The condition is associated with a poor immune system and, in certain instances, low vitamin D levels. The “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” showed that when exposed to ultraviolet-B rays, the element of sunlight that kick starts the vitamin D production system in the body, vitamin D levels increased significantly, and the symptoms of psoriasis disappeared. Similarly, a study in “Rheumatology International” also found that increasing vitamin D levels helped improve psoriasis symptoms. Vitamin D is important in the rate of cell renewal and division.  A lack of vitamin D can lead to thinner skin that is fragile and sagging.  Vitamin D-3’s presence in your system is known to support the healing of wounds.  Some people use vitamin D for skin conditions including vitiligo, scleroderma, psoriasis, actinic keratosis, and lupus vulgaris.  Some studies have found that both children and adults with eczema are more likely to have low levels of vitamin D. Lower vitamin D levels are also linked to more severe skin symptoms. Research has found that people who have eczema and low levels of vitamin D are more likely to get infections on their skin.

SkinStore Editors
Writer and expert
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Our team of beauty experts cover everything from skincare to makeup, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the SkinStore blog, and find all your essentials in one place.
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