Vitamin D - everything you need to know about it

What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in our overall wellbeing, especially the health of the bones, the immune system and the skin. It is often called the "sunshine vitamin", since our body creates vitamin D in the moments when the skin is touched by sunlight. In recent years vitamin D has come to the fore for its place in skincare as well. It helps nourish, soothe and protect the skin, and that is one of the reasons it is among the best-known and most loved vitamins of all.

The origins of vitamin D

The discovery of vitamin D dates back to the early 20th century, when scientists were searching for a remedy for rickets, a condition caused by a lack of vitamin D. It was identified as a key nutrient that supports the absorption of calcium and the health of the bones. This is why newborns and small children are given vitamin D in the form of drops - it is one of the few supplements of their early diet. Time spent in the sun helps replenish vitamin D naturally, which is why supplementing makes most sense during the winter months, when there is less sunlight and we are more covered up. The process works like this: the body is able to synthesise vitamin D when ultraviolet B rays (UVB) reach the skin. The human body is so efficient at this that sunlight is our primary source of vitamin D. Vitamin D also occurs naturally in foods such as certain fish and eggs.

Types of vitamin D

Vitamin D exists in two main forms:

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol)

Vitamin D2 comes mainly from plant sources and fortified foods. It is commonly found, for example, in mushrooms long exposed to the sun or in ready-made food supplements.

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)

Vitamin D3 is the form the body creates when the skin is touched by sunlight. It is also found in foods of animal origin, such as salmon, liver and egg yolks. Vitamin D3 is absorbed and used by the body more easily, which makes it the preferred choice for supplements and skincare products.

Vitamin D in skincare

Modern science has allowed us to extract vitamin D and use it in cosmetic products too. It is an effective ingredient in a range of products that support healthy, youthful-looking skin. It supports the skin's natural barrier function, encourages cell renewal and helps shield it from environmental stressors. Below we mention some of the key benefits of vitamin D in cosmetics:

1. Vitamin D supports skin renewal

Vitamin D supports the creation of keratinocytes, the primary cells of the epidermis. These cells play an essential role in the renewal of the skin, helping to repair damaged tissue and keep the complexion smooth and healthy.

2. Vitamin D improves the barrier function

A strong skin barrier helps hold moisture in and shields the skin from pollutants and bacteria. Vitamin D supports this barrier, easing dryness, redness and irritation.

3. The soothing effects of vitamin D

Vitamin D has naturally soothing, anti-inflammatory qualities, which is why it is often mentioned in connection with more demanding skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. It helps calm inflamed skin and soften redness.

4. Vitamin D and premature ageing

By supporting cell turnover and the production of collagen, vitamin D helps soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps counter oxidative stress, one of the main reasons behind premature ageing.

5. Vitamin D and skin in the sunshine

Vitamin D is said to support the skin's resilience to UV radiation. Alongside mineral sun protection, such as zinc oxide, it is part of caring gently for skin that spends time in the sun.

How to enjoy the benefits of vitamin D

If you would like to make the most of vitamin D for your skin, welcome products enriched with this lovely ingredient into your routine. Some of the natural cosmetics by PANAKEIA use vitamin D in their formulations too. One of them is the Dokonala zjenka renewing balm. We also offer mountain calcium with mumio, as well as creams, oils and other supplements containing vitamin D.

Frequently asked questions about vitamin D

1. How will vitamin D help my skin?

Vitamin D supports the renewal of the skin, strengthens the skin barrier, soothes inflammation and helps soften the signs of ageing. It supports a healthy, youthful-looking complexion.

2. Can vitamin D only be obtained from the sun?

Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, yet it can also be topped up through certain foods such as some kinds of fish or eggs, or through food supplements.

3. Are cosmetics with vitamin D suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, vitamin D has soothing qualities that feel calming on the skin. It helps ease redness, dryness and irritation.

4. Can vitamin D help with acne?

Yes, the soothing and calming qualities of vitamin D make it helpful in easing the redness and inflammation associated with acne.

5. Which ingredients work well with vitamin D?

Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, olive squalane and various plant extracts work beautifully alongside vitamin D to hydrate, protect and restore the skin.

Interesting facts about vitamin D

• Vitamin D is often called the "sunshine vitamin", because the body creates it when it is touched by sunlight.
• A lack of vitamin D can lead to dry, dull skin and faster ageing.
• Unlike many vitamins, vitamin D behaves more like a hormone, regulating a number of processes in the body.
• Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are an excellent natural source of vitamin D.
• Ancient civilisations unknowingly benefited from vitamin D by spending time outdoors, which kept their bones and skin healthier.