The Invisible Danger: How UV Rays Affect Our Skin and Health

Sunlight is a natural energy source that plays a vital role in the life of our planet Earth. It converts solar energy into chemical energy, the basis for our food system. Plants synthesize food from its energy that serves as food for humans and animals. This process helps to sustain plant life and provides oxygen for animals and human beings along with food. It is crucial in synthesizing Vitamin D in our body that helps to regulate calcium and phosphate for the bone strength. It has positive impact on our mental health by stimulating the production of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that elevates our mood. People in cold places are more prone to depression as lack of sunlight during the winters leads people to depression.  Sun emits Ultra Violet rays, powerful radiation that effects our skin and overall health. Let us understand in detail about the UV rays and their crucial role in protecting overall well-being.

In our history, sunlight holds significant importance in cultural and spiritual societies. Sun is referred to as deity and recognizes its role to sustain life on the planet Earth. He is worshipped from ancient times. We still honor sun God and offer prayers through various traditions, recognizing its importance in everyday lives.

What Are UV Rays?

Ultraviolet rays are electromagnetic radiations emitted by the Sun with different wavelengths. They are categorized into 3 different wavelengths

1.      UVA Rays – These have the longest wavelength and are capable of penetrating into our skin layers deeply. As they penetrate they cause skin damage and starts premature aging at an early stage. They can break down the collagen and elastin fibers.

2.      UVB Rays – These have shorter wavelength and cause primary sunburn. They play a vital role in developing skin cancer.

3.      UVC Rays – These are the shortest wavelengths which are harmful too. Fortunately, UVC are absorbed by earth’s atmosphere and do not reach the surface.

As we get exposed to the sun’s UV rays, it causes sunburn. UV rays damage the skin cells, causing skin redness, swelling and at times blistering as well. Repeated sunburns causes long term skin damage which can lead to skin cancer.

Premature Aging

Chronic exposure to UVA rays shows signs of premature skin aging. They are visible through the appearance of winkles and fine lines and leathery texture. This process is called photoaging, caused due to UVA penetration into the skin depth and damaging the underlying skin structure that make the skin firm with elasticity.

Skin Cancer

The risk of skin cancer is an adverse effect of being exposed to UV rays continuously. There are 3 types of skin cancer associated with UV radiation.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

This is a very common skin cancer that forms as a small, shiny bump or a sore that doesn’t heal. It is caused due to the increased sun exposure over a period.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

This forms as a firm, red nodule or flat lesion with scaly crust. This is also formed due to the increased sun exposure.

Melanoma

This is known to be the deadliest form of skin cancer where new moles appear with unusual growth. Melanoma is associated with intense sun exposure and occurs commonly in people with fair skin type.

 Other Health Effects of UV Rays

Eye Damage

Continuous exposure to UV radiations can lead to cataract, photokeratitis( Painful sunburn of cornea) and macular degeneration. To prevent this we must protect our eyes with UV rays blocking sunglasses when we are outdoors.

Immune System Suppression

The immune system gets suppressed with continuous exposure to UV rays and loses its capability to fight against infections and diseases. This effects the overall health and well-being of an individual with decreased functioning of the immune system.

Protecting Yourself from UV Rays

Let us understand the dangers of UV rays and the proactive measures to shield ourselves from them. Let us understand few strategies to protect the ourselves.

Use Sunscreen

Look for broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or Sunscreenwith SPF 25 where we must apply the suncreens 15mins before we get exposed to sunlight. Sunscreen must be reapplied every 3-4 hours when we are very rarely exposed to sunlight. People who are in the sun radiation continuously must reapply sunscreen for every 2 hours and people who are exposed to sunlight to travel to offices, schools and household works in cars, autos or metros should applying every 5 hours would suffice. Sunscreen must be applied properly on the neck, ears, feet and all areas where we get exposed to sun rays.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing long sleeved shirts, gloves to the hands, hats and use UV blocking sunglasses that reduce the exposure to harmful sun radiations.

Seek Shade

When outdoors, staying the shade when it’s possible during the peak hours of the sun radiations from 10 AM to 4PM as the UV radiations are strongest. When we are at beach or reflective surfaces like water and snow can intensify the UV exposure.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds emit UVA rays that increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate skin aging. Use self-tan products for to avoid its harmful effects.

Regular Skin Checks

Monitor skin changes and look for changes in the moles or any new growths in the body. We can treat skin cancer if we can detect it in early stages with treatments. Meet the doctors for annual check-ups as they can evaluate skin cancer or any issues in the early stages.

Conclusion

As we all know the importance of UV rays and their significance in the synthesis of Vitamin D and the fun we have in the out doors. Its important to understand its potential dangers at the same time. Understanding the impact of UV radiations on skin and overall health, taking the necessary steps to protect ourselves and be safe is a matured move where we can safeguard ourselves. Take preventive measures and let not sunshine radiations fear us!