TanMeter tool
Balance Vitamin D and Sunburn Risk
TanMeter calculates the minimum sun exposure minutes needed for adequate vitamin D synthesis at your latitude and skin type—without crossing into burn territory.
Continue in TanMeter
Save results and unlock the full iPhone app.
Download on the App StoreHow it works
- Enter your skin type, latitude or city, and current season.
- View TanMeter's vitamin D synthesis window in minutes of unprotected arm exposure.
- Compare the vitamin D window against your burn risk threshold.
- Find the safe overlap zone where you get D without damaging skin.
- Log sessions in TanMeter to track weekly vitamin D sun time.
FAQ
How much sun do I need for vitamin D?
Most people need 10–30 minutes of midday sun on arms and legs several times per week. TanMeter adjusts for skin type and latitude.
Can I get vitamin D through sunscreen-covered skin?
SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB—the vitamin D wavelength. TanMeter recommends brief unprotected exposure within your safe window.
Should I rely on sun alone for vitamin D?
TanMeter recommends sun as a supplement to diet and D3 supplements, especially above 37° latitude in winter months.