Summer is one of the best seasons of the year, when people spend more time outdoors, in the sun and fresh air. However, the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) rays also increases, causing damage to the skin and elevating the risk of developing skin cancer.

Though sunlight is essential for the synthesis of vitamin D, excessive sun exposure can cause serious damage to our skin and health. That's why it's important to know how to protect yourself properly.

Why is ultraviolet radiation harmful?

UV rays are devided into three types: UVA, UVB and UVC.

·  UVA -  penetrates into

 deep layers and causes skin ageing and mutation

· UVB – is the main cause of sunburn and the development of carcinogenic mutations in the skin.

·  UVC -  they practically do not reach the Earth, as they are absorbed by the atmosphere.       

Exposure to UVB and UVA rays damages the skin, increases the risk of pigmentation, and the development of lobular tumors, and a long-term exposure is directly linked to the risk of developing melanoma and other malignant tumors.

 

Key recommendation for sun protection

1.  Use sun protection balm (SPF)

• Choose wide-spectrum (UVA/UVB protecting) cream, with at list SPF 30;
• Apply to the skin 20-30 minutes before getting out and refresh every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating;
• Don’t forget areas, like ears, neck, and lips.  

2.  Wear protective clothing and accessories

• Choose tightly woven, light color clothes;
• Wear wide-breemed hats, covering your face, ears, and neck;
• Use sunglasses with UV protection.

3.  Stay in shade during peak sun hours  

• The sun's rays are strongest between 10:00 and 16:00;
• If it is necessary to go outside, try to stay in shade or use sun umbrella 

4. Solarium (tanning bed)

• Tanning beds emit high doses of UVA rays, which significantly increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

5.  Protect children with special care

• Children’s skin is especially sensitive to UV rays;      
• Use special sunscreens for children and hats.

6.  Protect your skin even when you are in water

• Water doesn’t protect against UV rays—they penetrate deep into the skin; 
• Use water-proof sunscreen creams.

Protection of skin from UV rays in the summer months is important both for cosmetic and health reasons. A simple daily routine, such as using SPF and limiting the time spent in the sun, significantly reduces the risk of sun damage, including skin cancer.

Prevention – this is the best defense.