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5 Benefits of Sunlight for Your Body and Mind

Although sunny weather isn’t always ideal for certain types of procedures, injectables like BOTOX® and other wrinkle-relaxing injections from our NJ-based practice aren’t affected by sun exposure and patients don’t need to give their skin any special attention—beyond the usual. Want more good news?

It’s true that excessive exposure to UV radiation can age the skin and even increase a person’s risk of skin cancer significantly, but even though you’re rushing to smear on sunscreen and seek shade—yes, during the winter, too!—don’t forget that it’s important to still get small doses. Aim for preferably 15 minutes a day rather than several hours of sunbathing.

Although we often only hear about the negative effects of prolonged sun exposure, taking in small amounts of it is actually good for your health. Here are five reasons why moderate sunlight is important. 

1. Manages Chronic Skin Conditions 

By decreasing skin inflammation and boosting vitamin D, sunlight can reduce symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. 

2. Improves Your Mental Health 

Small doses of sunlight help you cope with stress by keeping melatonin regulated. Additionally, it increases levels of the “feel-good chemical” serotonin in your brain to put you in a happier mood. 

3. Helps You to Sleep Better

Exposure to sunlight during the daytime, especially morning sunlight, keeps your circadian rhythms regulated so that your body produces melatonin when it’s time for you to get to bed. 

4. Boosts Your Immune System

Adequate amounts of vitamin D are crucial for maintaining a strong immune system to stave off illnesses and infections. 

5. Could Help You to Lose Weight 

Although it’s still not fully understood, many experts believe that there’s a link between sun exposure and weight loss because blue light from the sun is thought to shrink subcutaneous white adipose tissue (fat cells below the skin). Some recent studies indicate that there’s an association between the absence of sunlight and holiday weight gain. 

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Carlos Burnett and our team are happy to answer any questions about skin aging, procedures and treatments ideal for the season, and more. Contact Burnett Plastic Surgery by calling 908.233.0200, or fill out a contact form to request a consultation. 

Carlos Burnett