How Does The Sun Damage Your Skin?
The Sun’s UV (ultraviolet) radiation is harmful to the skin because it can damage the DNA in skin cells. This can lead to a number of problems, including sunburn, premature ageing of the skin, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
UV radiation is divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA radiation is the longest wavelength and is responsible for tanning and ageing the skin. UVB radiation is intermediate in wavelength and is responsible for burning the skin. UVC radiation is the shortest wavelength and is the most harmful, but fortunately it is almost completely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not reach the surface.
When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, it can cause the production of free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can damage the DNA in skin cells. This can lead to sunburn, which is characterised by red, painful skin that may peel or blister. Sunburn is a sign of damage to the skin and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Exposure to the sun can also cause premature ageing of the skin, which is characterised by wrinkles, age spots, and a loss of elasticity and firmness. This is because UV radiation can break down the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, which provide structure and support.
In addition to these effects, UV radiation can also increase the risk of skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types and are usually not life-threatening, but melanoma is more aggressive and can be deadly if not caught and treated early.
To protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun, it is important to use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It is also a good idea to wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and to seek shade when the sun is at it’s strongest, typically between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.