The sun is a vital source of energy for our planet, and its rays have a significant impact on our health and well-being. However, sun exposure also carries certain risks for our skin. Find out about the sun effects on the skin (both the good and bad ones), as well as how to protect ourselves properly thanks to this post by Arandovo.
How does sun affect the skin?
The skin, the largest organ of the human body, which acts as a protective barrier against the environment. Sun exposure has a significant impact on it. The sun’s rays, especially UV rays, interact with the skin in a variety of ways.
Sunlight is composed of three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays are blocked by the earth’s atmosphere and do not reach our skin, while UVA and UVB rays penetrate the skin surface and can cause visible and invisible changes.
Impact of UV Rays on the skin
Prolonged and unprotected exposure to these rays can lead to many skin health problems, such as hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, and, in severe cases, melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
UVA rays
These rays penetrate deep into the skin and are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles and long-term damage. UVA rays are also associated with the risk of skin cancer, as they can damage the DNA of skin cells.
UVB rays
UVB rays mainly affect the outer layer of the skin and are responsible for sunburns. They also stimulate the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health. However, excessive exposure to UVB rays can also lead to skin cancer.
Benefits of sunbathing
Despite the risks, controlled sun exposure has important health benefits. UV radiation stimulates the production of vitamin D in the skin, and sunlight can improve mood and help regulate the sleep-wake cycle. These are some of the main benefits of sunbathing:
Vitamin D production
Sun exposure is a natural source of vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in immune function and disease prevention.
Mood improvement
Sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a hormone that improves mood and helps fight depression and anxiety. Spending time outdoors can increase energy levels and overall well-being.
Skin disease treatment
Some skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can improve with controlled sun exposure. UV rays can help reduce inflammation and cell proliferation associated with these conditions.
Regulation of sleep
Natural sunlight helps regulate the circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to sunlight during the day can improve the quality of nighttime sleep.
Skin damage due to sunbathing
Despite the benefits, excessive or unprotected exposure to the sun can have long-term negative consequences for the skin and cause significant skin damage, such as:
Sunburns
Intense and unprotected exposure to UVB rays can cause sunburns, which manifests as redness, pain and, in severe cases, blisters. Frequent sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer.
Premature aging
UVA rays accelerate the skin’s aging process, causing wrinkles, fine lines and loss of elasticity. Chronic sun exposure can result in skin that appears older than it really is.
Hyperpigmentation
Sun exposure can cause dark spots to appear on the skin, known as sunspots or lentigines. These spots are more common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face and hands.
Skin cancer
Prolonged exposure to UV rays increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, in particular, is the most dangerous type and can be fatal if not detected early.
Immune system weakening
Prolonged sun exposure can suppress the skin’s immune function, making it more susceptible to infections and other diseases.
How to properly protect yourself from the sun
To enjoy the benefits of the sun without suffering any damage, it is essential to follow some protective measures such as those mentioned below:
Sunscreen use
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Be sure to cover all exposed areas of skin.
Protective clothing
Wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants and wide-brimmed hats to protect from the sun. Sunglasses with UV protection are essential to protect the eyes and the skin around them as well.
Seek shade
Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are most intense.
Self-care and monitoring
Perform regular skin self-examinations to detect any unusual changes, such as new moles or changes in existing ones. Consult a dermatologist for regular check-ups.
How to restore sun-damaged skin
If the skin has been damaged by sun exposure, it is important to take immediate steps to promote its recovery and prevent further damage. Here are some tips to help restore skin health:
Hydration
Keep skin well hydrated by using moisturizing creams and lotions. Products containing aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, such as MKARE®️ are especially effective in soothing and moisturizing sun-damaged skin.
Antioxidant use
Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can help repair cell damage caused by free radicals generated by sun exposure. Look for serums and creams that contain these ingredients.
Gentle exfoliation
Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and promote skin regeneration. Opt for gentle exfoliants to avoid additional irritation.
Professional treatments
Consult a dermatologist about treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy and microdermabrasion, which can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
Healthy nutrition
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and antioxidant-rich foods can help the skin recover and stay healthy.
Natural dietary supplements for skin protection
Dietary supplements can complement the sun protection provided by traditional methods, such as the use of sunscreen and protective clothing.
These natural supplements can offer additional benefits by strengthening the skin’s natural defenses and supporting its overall health against the harmful effects of the sun. Integrating said supplements into a skin care routine along with proper sun protection practices can help you maintain healthy, radiant skin over time.
MKARE®️ is a 100% natural functional ingredient that natively contains collagen (Type I, V and X), elastin, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, lysozyme, chondroitin sulfate and over 400 proteins. In addition, MKARE®️ offers a perfect matrix of key biomolecules in a single natural ingredient that can help improve skin health by helping to protect it against the sun.
Sun plays a crucial role in our health and well-being, providing essential benefits such as vitamin D production and mood enhancement. However, it is very important to recognize the risks associated with excessive sun exposure, including sunburns, premature aging and skin cancer.
To maximize the benefits of the sun while minimizing the risks, it is essential to take appropriate protective measures, such as using sunscreen, protective clothing and avoiding exposure during peak hours. If your skin has already been damaged by the sun, there are many strategies and treatments available to promote its recovery and keep it healthy.
Remember, balance is the key: enjoy the sun safely and consciously to keep your skin radiant and healthy for many years to come.
If you want to know more about MKARE®️ and how it can help your skin care, check out our website now or get in touch with us, we will be happy to answer all of your questions.
