Ultraviolet and its effect on our skin!
More and more, we are getting used to the trend of porcelain skin and in the summer we use sun creams for the face and body, glasses with UV protection and even special bathing suits — all this in order to reduce the impact of the sun on our skin as much as possible. But why do we protect ourselves mainly in the summer, or should we remember about sun protection at other times of the year as well? Why are so many rules and attention allocated under the rubric of protection from the sun?
To clearly answer these questions and demonstrate exactly how UV rays affect the skin - pay attention to the photo of a truck driver - in the photo, a 69-year-old man who spent about 28 years in the cab of a truck with an open window: the left side of his face, which was always near windows were exposed to the sun for several hours every day. The photo shows how the skin on the left side of the face has lost its density and elasticity, pronounced wrinkles, vascular stars and age spots have appeared.
What is important to know in order to preserve the youth and health of our skin?
- The human body is affected by two types of solar radiation:
- A-rays (UVA) — the safest rays, about 90% of all UV, pass through clouds and glass. They affect the production of melanin, which protects the skin from the sun. These rays provoke the appearance of photoaging, pigmentation and dryness of the skin.
-B-rays (UVB) — make up 5-10% of the rays and are more dangerous, as they penetrate deeper into the skin and cause skin burns and increase the risk of cancer cell formation with prolonged exposure.
- UV radiation is a constant active factor. UV rays have a negative effect in any weather (it is a misconception that the effect of UV is not pronounced in rainy weather), moreover, UV penetrates even through glass.
- Approximately 50% of the daily dose of UV radiation received by a person is reflected by water, snow or sand (this requires even greater protection, we remember this and protect the skin all year round, especially in winter!), or there is also scattered UV light.
- Photoaging itself manifests itself in the form of increased keratinization of the skin (hyperkeratosis), the formation of fine wrinkles, pigmentation and increased dryness and flabbiness of the skin.
- Under the influence of UV rays, cell membranes are damaged, cell DNA and collagen fibers are damaged.
- A particularly important point! Please note that under the influence of UV radiation there is a risk of the formation and development of new pigment neoplasms - moles (nevi), melanoma (malignant tumor), basal and squamous cell skin cancer.
Remember the influence of ultraviolet rays, enjoy the sun without harming your health.
Author: Mykhashula Ivanna, cosmetologist
If you experience symptoms of an illness, please consult a doctor.