A novel device designed to replicate the health benefits of sunlight, including vitamin D production, without significant UV exposure has been introduced. The over-the-counter system, called Solius, aims to address widespread vitamin D deficiency, which affects an estimated 35 percent of U.S. adults.
Sunlight exposure plays a crucial role in regulating sleep cycles, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing mental health, while also providing the body with approximately 90 percent of its vitamin D. However, modern lifestyles, characterized by increased indoor time, the use of high-SPF sunscreens to mitigate cancer risk and skin aging, and a rise in obesity, have contributed to lower vitamin D levels.
Dr. Mike Ellis, medical director at Keep Glowing Medical Spa, noted that factors like medications for high cholesterol and weight loss, as well as inflammatory gut conditions that impair absorption, can further decrease vitamin D availability. Low levels of this essential vitamin can lead to muscle weakness, bone fragility, compromised immunity, and mood disturbances such as anxiety and depression.
Solius's approach involves a personalized skin analysis to determine the precise dose of UVB light required for each user. The device, a slim wall-hanging panel, delivers this calculated dose for just five minutes weekly. It is designed to activate beneficial processes within the skin, such as converting 7-dehydrocholesterol into previtamin D3, which then becomes active vitamin D3 over 24 to 48 hours. According to Solius, this process begins within seconds of UVB exposure.
The UVB light also triggers the release of neurotransmitters, nitric oxide, and hormones, which Solius claims can improve mood, energy levels, stress balance, motor control, and learning, while offering long-term neuroprotection against cognitive decline. Additionally, the therapy is said to strengthen the skin and gut microbiomes, contributing to better skin health, reduced inflammation, and improved digestion, immunity, and mood regulation.
The device monitors its light output and positioning to prevent overuse, ensuring safe and effective therapy delivery. Solius states that a full year of weekly treatments involves less UV exposure risk than just five minutes of afternoon sun.
Health professionals have shared perspectives on the device. Dr. Ellis acknowledged that personalized sunlight devices can be effective for increasing vitamin D, particularly during winter or for individuals with absorption issues, provided they emit the correct UVB spectrum. He confirmed that the Solius device utilizes the proper UVB spectrum.
Longevity expert Gary Brecka echoed this sentiment, noting that people increasingly live indoors, controlled environments, and are often taught to fear the sun. He described such technologies as an effort to "make convenient" the best aspects of natural sunlight. Brecka suggested that devices triggering vitamin D production operate on a similar principle to red light therapy, isolating beneficial wavelengths.
He added that for individuals who are housebound, in care settings, or experiencing northern winters, a controlled dose of appropriate wavelengths presents a reasonable use case. However, Brecka also cautioned that such devices are a refinement, not a replacement for natural sunlight, emphasizing that sunlight is "free and accessible."
Dr. Ellis advised caution for individuals with a history of skin cancer or those taking photosensitizing medications, recommending they avoid such devices. The Solius device is priced at $2,995.