In the northern hemisphere we are in mid summer and for most of us the sun is shining bright. While sun exposure helps our bodies produce vitamin D - too much sun can cause wrinkles, dry skin, age spots and skin cancer. Our bones require vitamin D in order to remain healthy and strong. Vitamin D is needed for the absorption of calcium in the gut and for the proper mineralization of bone. Our skin can make vitamin D once it is exposed to the sun. How much sun exposure should you get is a question that many women have asked. Here are some guidelines for gaining the benefits from the sun without increasing your risk of skin problems:

Always protect your face from the sun. Wear a hat or put sunscreen of at least SPF 15 on your face. Your face has fragile skin and is very susceptible to sun damage of all kinds. Nothing will age your face faster than having it exposed to the sun. So cover up to keep you face safe and young.

During the day, expose your arms or legs to the sun during a walk or any time you are outside for about 10-15 minutes. This short amount of time is enough to get your daily dose of vitamin D.

For any amount of time greater than 15 minutes, cover your skin up with clothing or sun screen of at least SPF 15. Even if there is a light haze in the sky, cover up -- the sun's rays can penetrate through and cause damage.

Protect your eyes by wearing good quality sunglasses and a hat! The ultraviolet rays of the sun can damage your eyes as well.

Never allow your skin to get burned!

Remember to talk with your doctor about any changes in your skin such as new moles, moles that have become an odd shape or discolored or other variations in your skin. These changes may be a sign of skin damage from the sun, which can result in skin cancer. Most forms of skin cancer are easy to treat especially if you have it treated quickly.

Enjoy the rest of the summer. And keep your skin young and healthy by getting the right amount of sun exposure!