Sunblock protects the skin from harmful cancer-causing rays, but this protection means you're also absorbing less of what the body needs to make vitamin D. Anything over SPF 8 cuts the ultraviolet production by more than 75 percent. 10 to 20 minutes per day of unprotected sun exposure is generally enough for lighter skinned people, while those with darker skin need about an hour of unprotected sunlight. After this time has elapsed, it is best to apply sunscreen to get those protective benefits.

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