As Summer Season Is Approaching, Here's All You Need To Know About Sun Exposure And Its Effects

People with all ages and skin tones should restrict their exposure to the sun, particularly between mid-morning and late afternoon, and avoid other sources of UV radiation, such as tanning beds.

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The sun is a vital source of life on Earth, providing warmth, light, and essential vitamins such as Vitamin D. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can have adverse effects on our skin. The sun emits UVA, UVB, and UVC rays, with UVA and UVB rays causing the most skin damage. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and cause long-term damage, while UVB rays cause sunburns and immediate damage.

Dr. Nandini Baruah, a skin expert, and senior consultant of dermatology at Max Multi Speciality Centre, Panchsheel Park said, "while limited sun exposure is beneficial, excessive sun exposure can be harmful. To safeguard our skin, we should wear protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts, and use umbrellas to shield ourselves from the sun. Regular sunscreen application is also crucial, with an SPF of at least 30, applied two to three times a day on exposed areas."

How Much Sun Exposure Is Enough?

The amount of sun exposure required varies from person to person, with 10-30 minutes of sun exposure per day on average, providing enough Vitamin D without damaging our skin. However, it is important to note that factors such as skin type, location, and time of day can influence the amount of sun exposure required, the skin expert said. 

According to the skin expert, the effects of sun damage can accumulate over time, resulting in visible changes in our skin. Some of these changes include the destruction of collagen and elastin fibers, wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Long-term sun exposure can also lead to more severe damage, such as telangiectasia, dark spots, and skin cancer.

Fortunately, several treatments can help reverse the damage caused by sun exposure. Exfoliation is a common treatment used to remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath, Dr Nandini said. "Chemical peels are an effective type of exfoliation that can help improve the texture and tone of the skin," added further. 

She added: "Microdermabrasion is another treatment that can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin. It involves using a special machine to remove the top layer of skin, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin underneath."

How Can It Be Treated?

According to the skin expert, for severe cases of sun damage, several other treatments are available, such as retinoids, lightening agents, chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion, and fillers. These treatments can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and other signs of aging caused by sun exposure, she said. 

While the sun is crucial for our health, excessive exposure can be detrimental to our skin. Protecting our skin from the sun with clothing, sunscreen, and shade is vital to prevent damage. Dr Nandini said, "if you do experience sun damage, several treatments are available to help reverse the damage and restore your skin's youthful appearance. Always remember to take care of your skin and shield it from the harmful effects of the sun."