When we talk about skincare, we usually zero in on moisturisers, cleansers, serums, and SPF. But there’s one powerful player that often gets overlooked: vitamin D levels. It doesn’t just boost your immunity and bone health; it’s also a key factor in maintaining skin health. Yet, despite its importance, many men are unknowingly low on vitamin D. The result? A host of unexpected skin concerns. “Essentially, low vitamin D levels are often found in people with certain skin diseases — including eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, and alopecia areata (patchy hair loss),” says Dr Kiran Sethi, Celebrity Dermatologist and founder of Isla Aesthetics. Here’s how low vitamin D could be sabotaging your skin — and what to do about it.
Dry, Itchy, or Flaky Skin
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in skin barrier function. Without enough of it, the skin struggles to retain moisture, leading to dryness and irritation—even if you’re using a solid skincare routine. Low levels can also compromise the skin’s ability to fend off environmental aggressors like pollution or harsh weather, which can worsen flakiness. “Vitamin D also helps keep the skin’s barrier strong, controls how skin cells grow and mature, and keeps the skin’s immune system balanced. Without enough vitamin D, these processes can get disrupted, making skin problems worse,” adds Dr Sethi.
Worsened Eczema and Psoriasis
If you suffer from chronic skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, a vitamin D deficiency might be making things worse. Research has shown that vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate skin cell production — two major factors in managing these skin issues.
Slow Wound Healing
Scraped your face while shaving or had a breakout that left a mark? Low vitamin D could be the reason those blemishes or nicks are taking longer than usual to heal. “In older adults, dermatoporosis—thin, fragile skin that bruises or tears easily and heals slowly — can be linked to vitamin D deficiency because vitamin D supports collagen production, skin repair, and inflammation control,” explains Dr Sethi
Increased Acne Breakouts
There’s growing evidence that vitamin D helps reduce inflammation — a major trigger for acne. Deficiency can lead to unchecked inflammation in the skin, clogged pores, and overproduction of oil. In some studies, individuals with acne were more likely to have low vitamin D levels than those with clear skin.
Dull, Tired-Looking Skin
A deficiency in vitamin D doesn’t just impact skin health — it can mess with your energy levels and mood, too. The result? Skin that looks as fatigued as you feel.
How to Fix It
• Get smart sun exposure: 10–20 minutes of sunlight a few times a week (without sunscreen) is often enough — especially on arms, legs, or back.
• Consider supplements: Talk to your doctor about adding a vitamin D3 supplement, especially if you’re in a low-sun region.
• Boost your diet: Incorporate more vitamin D-rich foods like salmon, sardines, egg yolks, and fortified milk or cereals.
• Get tested: If you suspect a deficiency, a simple blood test can confirm your levels.
