Vitamin A – Benefits, Risks, and Sun Sensitivity
As we enjoy the transition in March to sunnier days, many of us are eager to revive our rejuvenating skincare and nutrition routines. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in skin renewal, vision, immune function, and even cancer prevention, but it comes with an important caveat—sun sensitivity and awareness. This is a topic covered often in Dr. Moondust’s blogs, videos and books.
Why Vitamin A is Essential ?
Vitamin A is a vital element for:
- Skin health: It aids cell turnover, reduces acne, and helps repair damage.
- Immune function: Strengthening the body’s defenses against infections.
- Vision: Supporting night vision and overall eye health.
Natural vs. Synthetic Vitamin A Sources
Nutrient intake from foods and healthy lifestyle choices and behaviours is always preferred. Supplements do have an important place if appropriate and on a case by case basis to be discussed with your healthcare provider.
- From Diet: Found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and eggs, offering a balanced, non-irritating form of Vitamin A.
- From Skincare (Retinoids): Retinol, tretinoin, and other synthetic forms are often used in anti-aging and acne treatments, but they significantly increase sun sensitivity.
Sun Sensitivity & Vitamin A: What You Need to Know
- Winter Retinol Users Beware: If you’ve been using retinoids over the winter, be extra cautious with sun exposure as they can make skin more susceptible to UV-induced damage.
- Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Those using Vitamin A in skincare should always apply sun protection, even on cloudy days.
Spring Transition Tip: Consider lowering retinol frequency or shifting to a gentler form like bakuchiol as sun exposure increases.
Dr. Moondust’s Notes on Vitamin A & Apoptosis
Dr. Moondust, founder of Moondust Cosmetics® and the Moondust website, a cancer biologist, warns that excessive UV exposure and apoptosis (cell death) dysregulation are key factors in skin cancer risk. While Vitamin A can support skin renewal, improper use—especially without sun protection—can lead to premature apoptosis, potentially triggering cancerous changes in cells (especially, if you are prone to scientific sunburn). This underscores the need for balance, proper skincare use, and year-round UV protection.
What is ahead? March is a time of renewal, both inside and out. By focusing on detoxification, skin transitions, and Vitamin A awareness, we set ourselves up for a healthier season ahead. Remember—what you put in and on your body matters, and small shifts now can make a lasting impact on your health, skin, and well-being.
For more posts in nutrients, nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices to enrich your life in the spring and summer season ahead check the website and our socials!
Join us on social media
Facebook, Instagram, YouTube.
Drop a line to comment or send in a question (EMAIL) info@moondustcosmetics.com
