We know that the sun is necessary for our life and brings several benefits such as improved mood, in treatments against some forms of seasonal depression, and in the synthesis of vitamin D, which helps in fixing calcium in the bones.However, you must be very careful, as UV rays have harmful effects on the skin. Thus, in order to take full advantage of the benefits, the correct use of sunscreen is essential .
In excessive doses, the sun can be very dangerous and cause:
1-Burns of different degrees
Also called solar erythema, it is the most frequent immediate effect caused by exposure to the sun.
2-Photodermatoses
Allergic reactions are manifested on the skin in the form of chronic inflammation and can appear anywhere in our body. They are: lucite or other dermatoses aggravated by the sun, acne, chloasma, lupus, solar urticaria, vitiligo.
3-Photosensitization
Reactions that can appear on the skin due to the combination of exposure to the sun with the use of some product or ingestion of medication, turning it red. It can be similar to eczema, go beyond exposed areas and appear up to 48 hours after exposure.
4-Acceleration of skin aging
In the long run, other effects may arise. The first to be noticed in relation to photoaging is the appearance of spots on the skin , deep wrinkles , loss of density and elasticity of the skin.
5-Photocarcinogenesis
About 25% of cancers in the human body are skin. It is defined by the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of the cells that make up the skin. The dermatologist is the professional who takes the front line in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of the problem.
6-Beyond the skin
There are other parts of the body that also feel the effects of solar radiation. The eyes, for example, can suffer serious injuries and develop cataracts and photoconjunctivitis, in addition to dehydration, a serious problem that can cause death.
How to reduce the harmful effects of the sun
To reduce radiation damage, exposure to the sun can be done in a healthy way Check out some tips to enjoy the sun without risks: – The radiation level is too high between 10 and 16 hours, so it is recommended to avoid this period; – The use of sunscreen should be constant, regardless of whether the exposure period is short or long and if the day is cloudy; – To choose the sunscreen you must analyze the type of skin. Children have their own protectors for their skin type, which is much more sensitive; – The manufacturer’s recommendations for use must be strictly followed. Applying, for example, 30 minutes before exposure and reapplying every two hours or after leaving the water;
– Use of caps and hats and umbrellas whenever possible; – Sunglasses prevent eye damage. However, it is necessary to buy them in trusted places, as there are safety standards that must be followed, such as the ability to filter radiation, which, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, must be 99%. – Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration; – Apply leave in with sunscreen on the hair to prevent dryness, as they are also affected by the sun.
