Is this a good way to sunbathe?

[PeanutAnarchy]

I saw a friend yesterday for the first time in weeks.

She was looking really good and I asked her what her secret was.

Amongst other things she told me that she hates sunbathing and faffing about with sun cream, but to avoid looking too sickly (her words) she spends just five minutes lying in the sun on each side, then goes inside again to shower and moisturise. She does this every other day (weather allowing).

I would really like to adopt this too, but is it okay health wise to be sunbathing with no skin protection?

5 mins a day with no sun cream ( provided you won't burn ) is roughy what is needed at this time of year for Vitamin D production

Very few people in the UK get enough vitamin D so it sounds like a good way to get a top up to me. The sun is essential to life on earth but we’ve been conditioned to fear it because - like everything - we’re not very good at moderation. Spending some time outside each day is good for us physically and mentally, and sunscreen really isn’t necessary every day unless you’re spending lots of time outside. Of course if you’re trying to prevent wrinkles then I can see why people use spf moisturisers etc but in terms of actual skin damage, 5 minutes a day is not going to do you any harm.

Thanks both. I think I'm going to give it a try.