How to boost your Vitamin D levels for better health and glowing skin
Suffering from fatigue, poor sleep, low mood, hair loss and dry skin?
These are just a few of the signs that you may be suffering from a deficiency in vitamin D, so now is the time to boost your levels.
Dr Miriam explains from her East London clinic.
At least 40% of us are deficient
Let’s start by saying that many of us are deficient in Vitamin D. One of the most common nutrient deficiencies, low levels of vitamin D is on the rise, partly because we don’t get much Vitamin D from our diets but also because of skin cancer awareness through UVB exposure. Most at risk are women, people with darker skin tones, overweight, and living in low sunshine areas.
This stat only gets worse in the winter when sunshine is at an all-time low, which is why it’s so important to top up your levels. Vitamin D is one of those antioxidants we all need - it’s essential for all body functions. Not only is it required by most body tissues, including brain, heart, muscle, and immune system, it’s also highly important for calcium and bone formation.
Vitamin D is also good for a whole host of skin conditions
Take acne for example - this sunshine vitamin has anti-inflammatory properties to calm the cause of angry breakouts. But beyond that, vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory benefits can be used for psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. Those of us with low Vitamin D also tend to have lower than average skin moisture.
Plus, it helps to support the skin barrier
Vitamin D is also key to the formation of the skin barrier and its all-important task of warding off harmful bacteria, toxins, and infection. It’s also a key antioxidant which helps to diminish signs of premature ageing plus it’s loaded with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which keep acne and breakouts at bay. To add to this, low levels will slow down the wound healing process and blemishes may leave patches of pigmentation.
Some other signs of deficiency include regular illness or infection, fatigue or low energy, bone and lower back pain, low mood and depression, poor wound healing, hair loss and alopecia.
So, how can we increase vitamin D levels?
Supplementation is key - topical, oral, or intramuscular
Supplementation is recommended to meet the daily requirement but do take advice on how to do this as extreme oral supplementation can lead to toxicity. Since vitamin D is stored in the body’s fat cells, too much can result in nausea, vomiting, confusion, and in extreme cases, kidney failure, which is why applying Vitamin D topically is ideal for supporting skin in combination with measured oral or intramuscular supplementation.
For optimal supplementation, an intramuscular Vitamin D injection is an effective and easy way to boost your levels. It’s the best treatment for those with deficiency, poor absorption or who forget to take supplements. One injection lasts 6 months and is highly effective and easily absorbed with no need for daily tablets.
Invest in Vitamin D infused skincare and boost your skin barrier
When it comes to Vitamin D skincare, an oil-based cream applied in the evening after your night serum is probably the best way to add the important ingredients into your skincare routine. Since vitamin D is fat-soluble, it crosses the skin barrier readily to act locally and can boost levels in the bloodstream.
Vitamin D is key to the formation of the skin barrier and its all-important task of warding off harmful bacteria, toxins, and infection. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and vitiligo. Adequate levels can help manage and alleviate these conditions while diminishing signs of premature ageing through its antioxidant action.
To help determine the best skin care routine for you, invest in a face-to-face consultation and receive a personalised, consistent skincare routine.
How to Boost Your Vitamin D Levels for Better Health and Glowing Skin
Are You Vitamin D Deficient?
Do you often feel fatigued, struggle with poor sleep, experience low mood, hair loss, or dry skin? These could be signs of a Vitamin D deficiency, a common but often overlooked health issue.
Dr. Miriam, from her East London clinic, explains why boosting Vitamin D levels is essential for overall well-being and how you can optimize your intake for better health and radiant skin.
At Least 40% of People Are Vitamin D Deficient
Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most widespread nutrient deficiencies worldwide. Contributing factors include limited dietary sources, reduced sun exposure due to skin cancer awareness, and lifestyle choices. Those most at risk include:
- Women
- People with darker skin tones
- Individuals with higher body weight
- Those living in low-sunshine areas
During winter months, deficiency rates increase dramatically due to limited sun exposure, making it crucial to supplement Vitamin D levels effectively.
Why Is Vitamin D So Important?
Vitamin D plays a vital role in:
- Immune system function – helps the body fight infections
- Brain, heart, and muscle health
- Calcium absorption & bone strength – reduces the risk of osteoporosis
- Skin health & anti-aging – supports a healthy skin barrier
Vitamin D Benefits for Skin
1. Fights Acne & Skin Conditions
Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and acne breakouts. It also plays a role in managing psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo by supporting skin healing.
2. Strengthens the Skin Barrier
A strong skin barrier protects against bacteria, toxins, and environmental damage. Vitamin D enhances this barrier while promoting faster wound healing and reducing pigmentation from blemishes.
3. Slows Premature Aging
As a powerful antioxidant, Vitamin D fights free radicals, which cause wrinkles and fine lines, helping to keep skin looking youthful and radiant.
Signs You May Have a Vitamin D Deficiency
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need to boost your Vitamin D levels:
- Frequent illness or infections
- Chronic fatigue or low energy
- Bone or lower back pain
- Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
- Slow wound healing
- Hair thinning, hair loss, or alopecia
How to Increase Your Vitamin D Levels
1. Supplementation: Oral, Topical, or Injections
Vitamin D supplements can effectively restore levels, but dosage matters—too much can lead to toxicity. Here’s what to consider:
- Oral supplements: Consult a doctor for proper dosage.
- Intramuscular injections: A Vitamin D intramuscular injection lasts 6 months and is ideal for those with poor absorption or who forget daily supplements.
- Topical application: Applying Vitamin D skincare helps boost levels while improving skin hydration and elasticity.
2. Invest in Vitamin D-Infused Skincare
For optimal skin health, Vitamin D skincare products can:
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Reduce inflammation and acne breakouts
- Improve skin hydration and elasticity
A nightly Vitamin D oil-based cream is highly effective, as Vitamin D is fat-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deeply and enhance skin repair.
Pro Tip: Combine a personalized skincare consultation with proper supplementation to achieve radiant, healthy skin year-round.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring adequate Vitamin D levels is essential for overall health, strong immunity, and glowing skin. Whether through diet, supplements, or skincare, prioritizing Vitamin D will help you feel and look your best.
Want expert advice? Schedule a consultation with a skincare professional like Dr. Miriam A to determine the best routine for your needs.