The sun produces both visible and invisible rays. The invisible rays are known as ultraviolet-A (UVA) and ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays. These are the ‘problem rays,’ as they cause sun damage. In fact, there is no such thing as ‘safe’ UV light.
UV rays are more intense during the summer months, when one is closer to the equator, and at higher altitudes. The UV rays’ harmful effects are also increased by reflections from water, sand, snow and wind. UV rays can even cause skin damage on cloudy days.
The so-called ‘UV index’ is a predicted ultraviolet intensity, which can be found in the weather section of most newspapers. The higher the index, the greater the potential danger.
Possible effects of the sun
Tanning
A suntan is often mistaken for a sign of good health, although it is actually the result of skin damage. Tanning occurs when the skin tries to protect itself from UV rays by producing more pigment or melanin. ‘Indoor tanning’ is just as bad for your skin, as most tanning machines use UVA bulbs, which cause the rays to penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to premature wrinkling and skin cancer.
Sunburn
If skin is exposed to sunlight too long, redness and swelling may develop and increase in intensity for as long as 24 hours. Sunburn can lead to skin tenderness, pain, swelling and blistering. In the case of severe sunburn, additional symptoms like fever, dehydration and confusion may occur and require immediate
medical attention.
The likelihood of developing sunburn is greatest between 10:00 and 16:00, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. It is also easier to burn on a hot day, because heat increases the effects of UV rays. There is no quick cure for sunburn, although soothing lotions may provide some relief.
Wrinkles
Skin wrinkles are directly related to sun exposure.
Ageing
People who spend time in the sun without adequate sun protection tend to develop tough, leathery skin. The sun’s rays can also cause ‘age spots,’ and scaly growths (solar keratosis) that have an increased risk of developing into skin cancer. These skin changes are caused by years of sun exposure.
Skin cancer
More than 90% of all skin cancers occur on ‘sun exposed’ skin, including the face, ears, neck, back, arms and hands. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. A melanoma usually starts as a dark brown or black mole-like area with irregular edges. It may be multi-coloured and can occur anywhere on the body. When detected early, it can be cured, but if ignored, it can spread throughout the body and be fatal.
Diseases
UV rays have also been associated with a range of diseases, including cataracts, which is a gradual clouding of the eye’s lens. Wearing good sunglasses may help to prevent this from occurring.
Protection from the sun
Protecting children from the sun is especially important, as most of our sun exposure occurs before the
age of 20.
The use of adequate sun protection measures assists in preventing skin damage and reducing the risk
of cancer.
Sun protection measures include:
- Planning outdoor activities early or late in the day to avoid peak sunlight hours.
- Avoiding deliberate suntanning and artificial tanning machines.
- Dressing sensibly. Most clothing absorbs or reflects UV rays, but certain clothing (like white cotton clothes and wet clothes) does not offer much protection. Generally, the tighter the weaving of the clothing, the more sun protection it will offer.
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Using beach umbrellas and other kinds of shade. Remember, however, that these do not provide full protection, as UV rays can still bounce off sand and water.
Using sunscreens:
- Sunscreens should be applied about 20 minutes before going outdoors.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
- If swimming, use a water-resistant sunscreen.
- Reapply the sunscreen frequently (at least every one and a half hours or more often if sunny or heavily perspiring).
- Sunscreens work by absorbing, reflecting or diluting the sun’s rays on the skin. Sunscreens are available in many forms, including creams, sprays and sticks. Generally, the higher the SPF, the greater the protection. However, remember that sunscreens are not perfect and more protection is required.
- Everyone should be able to enjoy sunny days. By using a little common sense and discipline, it is possible to safely work and play outdoors without worrying too much about skin damage. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor for more information.
