Summer and your skin: the pros and cons of sun exposure
Whereas in the 70s and 80s, overexposure to the sun was the order of the day, today the damaging effects of the sun are well known, and the time has come for more moderate exposure. Overexposure to the sun is dangerous in both the short and long term. But when does the sun become dangerous and still offer benefits? In this article, we explain everything.
The benefits of sun exposure
Good for morale
Have you ever felt that sense of well-being when the first rays of sunshine appear in spring, or when you arrive at your holiday destination? It's perfectly normal. As soon as sunlight is perceived, the body produces endorphins, the feel-good hormones. That's why, in winter and in cities with little sunshine, some people suffer from seasonal depression. In some cases, this depression can be treated with phototherapy, which mimics natural light and is not to be confused with UV cabins.
Vitamin D production
The sun enables the body to replenish its supply of vitamin D, which maintains good bone and dental health, and is essential for growth in the youngest children. Vitamin D enables the body to better absorb calcium and phosphorus, optimizing their use. Exposure to the sun to replenish your body's vitamin supply is therefore essential, but in moderation! Just ten minutes a day is more than enough, protected by sunscreen. Contrary to certain rumours, a sun protection in no way prevents the production of vitamin D!
The harmful effects of sun exposure
The sun's rays are made up of three types of UV.
- UVA rays, which make up 90 % of the UV rays we receive, are the most deeply penetrating. They are responsible for skin aging, blemishes and hyperpigmentation, and are carcinogenic.
- UVB rays, which make up the rest and are partially attenuated by the atmosphere, cause the famous sunburns. UVB rays also cause the skin to produce melanin as a defensive reaction, resulting in tanned skin. They are also carcinogenic, causing the majority of skin cancers.
- UVCs, which are blocked by the ozone layer.
How to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays?
Dermatologists are categorical. It's essential to avoid prolonged exposure, especially when the sun is at its strongest between 12 and 4pm. Wear covering clothing if possible, or create shade with an umbrella. Last but not least, a hat and SPF50 are the best way to protect your skin and avoid sunstroke, which can cause nausea and dizziness.
Please note: just because you don't feel warm (caused by infrared rays) or the weather is cloudy doesn't mean that UV rays aren't present.
And don't forget your eyes! With UVA and UVB sunglasses. Eyes can also suffer from overexposure to the sun.
Focus on prevention
Once a year, don't hesitate to consult your GP or a dermatologist to take stock of your moles, as a preventive measure. Consult your doctor immediately if a mole changes shape, color or texture.
In conclusion, moderate exposure for ten minutes a day, with protection, is good for your health. Overexposure can lead to cosmetic damage (spots, hyperpigmentation), as well as longer-term problems. Take care of yourself and go out with your sun protection!
