9Sep/11Off
Is there a specific amount of Beta radiation that can cause skin to tan, and produce Vitamin D?
I know Ultra Violet light does both of these things. Can Beta radiation or other ionizing radiation do this also? Could it be that Ultra Violet light is the ONLY ionizing radiation that causes skin to tan and produce Vitamin D?
September 9th, 2011 - 02:36
Well this is variable based on your genetics and subsequently your melanin content of the skin naturally. Further factors are existing base tan.
UVB and UVA are just Ultra Violate wavelengths.. very similar to photons, but radioactive.
Generally, Sun exposure (in the spring/summer months) will produce roughly 1000IU’s of vitamin D per minute. So it is quite fast.
Other radiation/ionizing or otherwise will not tan or stimulate the synthesis of Vitamin D. It would merely increase the risk of neoplastic tumors, free radicals, and literally ‘burn you’ if exposed enough.
It is known UVB is responsible for Vitamin D, and UVA strength stays the same all year round, whereas UVB fluctuates based on the suns position to your part of the world.