How Much Sun for Vitamin D? Minutes by Skin Type and UV Index

There is no single number that fits everyone. The vitamin D you make from the sun depends on your skin tone, the UV index, the season, and how much skin is exposed. As a rough guide, lighter skin may need only 10 to 15 minutes of midday summer sun on the arms and legs, while darker skin needs longer. The goal is brief, regular exposure, never a burn.