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How Sunshine Can Heal Your Skin

The sun, vitamin D, and the skin are closely linked but it might seem crazy to say that sunshine heal your skin. We all recognize that the sun affects that skin, but whether this is negative or positive will depend on who you ask. Many people crave that sunkissed glow from a day at the beach and swear by the sun to reduce skin conditions, while others fear sun exposure due to growing concerns about skin cancer. 

Questions, unfounded assertions, and fears abound. Can the sun help heal your skin, or will it only damage it and lead to painful sunburns and potentially deadly melanoma? Let’s dig into the science behind the true power of sunlight and explore how sunshine can heal your skin.

Benefits of sunlight for skin conditions

Psoriasis

This annoying, itchy rash is an autoimmune-related disease triggered by stress, infection, and cold temperatures. It is characterized by thick, red skin and silvery scales and causes rough, patchy skin. Psoriasis is commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet.

Studies have shown that people with psoriasis are usually deficient in vitamin D, especially in winter. 

Most doctors prescribe topical creams, ointments, and medication for psoriasis, but light therapy (phototherapy) might be the most effective remedy. Light therapy exposes the skin to a concentrated burst of UV light and has been shown to eliminate even severe psoriasis. 

Consider talking to your dermatologist about light therapy to treat your psoriasis or simply get out in the sunshine. Daily sun exposure to the affected area is especially beneficial for moderate cases and can help boost immune response and reduce inflammation. 

Eczema

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is one of the most common skin conditions, particularly affecting children under 18. The National Eczema Association estimates that one in ten people will develop eczema during their lifetime. 

Eczema creates patches of itchy, red, dry, cracking skin that can cause discomfort, sleep loss, embarrassment, and further skin infection. Since it is primarily caused by the immune system and environmental triggers, battling this skin condition can be frustrating.

While keeping the skin moisturized and staying hydrated are undoubtedly helpful, sunlight could be the key to eradicating it. Studies have shown that UV exposure releases the vasodilator nitric oxide in the blood. This protects your heart and triggers an anti-inflammatory response that reduces psoriasis.

Many people with eczema notice a decrease in their symptoms in the summertime when UV exposure and vitamin D levels are higher. Keep an eye on your flare-ups. If you see that heat and sweat cause your eczema to worsen, avoid the hot midday sun.

Keratosis pilaris

Do you have inexplicable small red bumps on the backs of your arms, torso, or legs? If so, you might have keratosis pilaris. This condition, often confused with body acne, is prevalent and usually goes undiagnosed, as it doesn’t usually cause itching or discomfort. 

Driven by excess keratin production, these bumps are simply blocked hair follicles and are not harmful, meaning keratosis pillars doesn’t require treatment. 

However, it can be unsightly and embarrassing. After all, who wants “chicken skin” to show every time you wear shorts or a tank top. Thankfully, the sun could help you in your quest for smooth skin. 

For many people, UV exposure causes this condition to disappear entirely in the summertime. If you struggle with keratosis pillars, lean into the sunshine, letting the healing rays hit the affected area. Try to get sun exposure even in the wintertime to keep the bumps at bay. Believe it or not, sunshine could heal this annoying skin condition.

Newborn jaundice

Studies have shown that phototherapy could help treat infants with jaundice (yellowing of the skin). Parents should be highly cautious when exposing babies to the sun as they can quickly get too warm or sunburn. Controlled UV exposure should be performed under a doctor’s supervision. 

Is tanning healthy?

Unfortunately, this question isn’t as cut and dry as many might suggest. A tan is simply an increase in melanin in your skin due to sun exposure. While technically, any tan is a sign of damage, fluctuations in skin tone come with the change in seasons and varying intensity of the sun. 

As you spend more time outdoors in the summer, your skin produces more melanin to protect the skin from UV rays. This process is normal, and each person’s skin tone and tanning response are slightly different. While you shouldn’t bake in the sun intentionally to get that coveted bronze skin, tanning from appropriate sun exposure is safe. 

Does the sun cause aging and wrinkles?

The concept of photoaging, or the increased appearance of age from cumulative sun damage, keeps many people indoors and in the shade concerned about speeding up the natural aging process. Ultraviolet rays can penetrate the outer layer of skin and lead to wrinkles and dark spots. However, wrinkles also come from internal factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet choices. 

Plus, wrinkles are a natural part of life, and reaching your golden years is nothing to be ashamed about. 

Remember that vitamin D deficiency has been associated with dry, sagging skin since this essential vitamin is involved in renewing the epidermal cells in your skin. Therefore, avoiding the sun could lead to the very thing you are trying to prevent!

If you are concerned about sun exposure and wrinkles, you can apply an organic mineral-based sunscreen to your face whenever you head into the great outdoors. Just make sure that you expose other body parts to the sun to ensure vitamin D production. 

How to sunbathe for healthy skin

Sit outside for 10-30 minutes each day: Avoid the peak afternoon hours when the sun is blazing during the summer months. Instead, get in some morning sunlight before you head to work and catch a few of the day’s last rays just as the sun is setting.

If you have a darker complexion or live far from the equator, you may need more sun exposure for the same benefits. We recommended going naked to give your whole body a healing sunbath. 

When the sun is weaker in the winter, midday exposure is the best for clearing skin conditions and encouraging vitamin D production. 

Avoid getting sunburned: Sunburn is the opposite of healthy skin and could contribute to the development of skin cancer. While some sun exposure is essential and beneficial, too much can be harmful. 

Choose an organic mineral-based sunscreen and cover your skin with a light layer of clothing if you plan to be out in the hot sun for long periods.

Moisturize regularly: Moisturize your skin before and after sunbathing with an antioxidant-rich moisturizer such as coconut oil or aloe vera for added hydration. 

Sunlight: The key to good health

Contrary to popular opinion and mainstream professionals who tout the dangers of unprotected sun exposure, there are immense benefits to appropriate, safe sunbathing. Sunshine can heal your skin. Glowing skin, relief from rashes, and decreased chronic inflammation make your daily dose of sun a no-brainer. Combine your “sun time” with a walk, yoga, or meditation for even greater well-being.

Next steps

Remember, good skin starts from within. Drink plenty of water, eat an organic, 100 Year Heart Diet, consume plenty of free-radical-fighting antioxidants, limit toxins and heavy metals in your life, and take supplements when necessary. Get outdoors and soak up some sun!

Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well 

Medical Review: Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD 2022

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

Dr. Lattanza Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

Dr. Wolfson Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Jack Wolfson Fees

30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

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Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

IV Therapy

We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

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Acupuncture

Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

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Health Coaching

Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

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Cardio Tests

We use the most advanced testing in the world to assess heart health and to identify the root cause of your health issues.

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Office Visits

Schedule an office visit with one of our cardiologists, holistic physicians, chiropractor, or health coaches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

Is my medical and payment information secure?

Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.