Like everything else in nature, ultraviolet radiations have their benefits. Exposure to UV rays in adequate amount accelerates production of Vitamin D in the body which is responsible for calcium metabolism and secretion of Insulin. Hence, some time out in the morning sun not only leaves us feeling happy, but is also actually healthy. UV rays are also used in the treatment of certain diseases such as Psoriasis.
The bad part
Too much of anything is bad and UV rays are no exception. The biggest natural source of ultraviolet radiation is direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight often results in erythema, what we commonly call sunburn. Because UV rays cause damage to skin cells, more blood is released in the area, resulting in the red-colored burn.
A fine day on the beach also comes with its own share of UV rays. These rays cause limited cell and DNA damage. The body then releases higher amounts of melanin to counter this damage leading to what we call a tan. A tan is a reversible process and not lethal but one needs to understand that it is actually arising from damaged cells.
The long term effects of exposure to UV are way more dangerous. UV rays are the biggest cause of certain skin cancers, most notable among which is Malignant Melanoma. Most deaths caused by skin cancer are related to absorption of UV rays in the skin cells. UV rays also damage collagen fibers and destroy Vitamin A in the skin. People who are exposed to greater amounts of ultraviolet rays are likely to develop signs of aging such as wrinkles and loose skin early on, a condition known as photoaging.
You may have heard that there's a hole in the ozone layer. The ozone layer blocks 97-99% of the UV radiations emitted by the sun. And to think that the small amount of UV that seeps in causes so much of damage, one would probably think that thinning of the ozone layer or a hole above Antarctica would be lethal. It is. In countries close to the south pole (read Australia, New Zealand etc.), protection from ultraviolet rays is a must. Living in India, we lie geographically close to the equator and have abundant (perhaps excessive) sunshine throughout the year. Since there is very little we can individually do to repair that hole in the ozone layer or to change the geographical position of our country, it is of utmost importance to protect ourselves and our skin from the damaging effects of the evil ultraviolet rays.
How to protect against UV
Suncreen! Suncreens have ingredients that block the UV rays falling on our skin and prevent skin cells from absorbing them. The benefits of a sunscreen lotion are often overlooked. Many of us, specially men, might think of it as just another cosmetic item. But it's more than that, it is a life saver. Use a sunscreen before you step out into the suneach time. Not only will it protect you from skin tumors, it will also save you the pain arising from a sunburn. This is specially true for people who are exposed to the mid-day sun for long periods of time. That is why most sports people prefer to rub on a layer of it before stepping out into the field.
Avoid exposing yourself to the sun during the day. Countries like New Zealand advise their people not to step out into the sun between 10 AM to 4 PM. This might not be practical all the time, of course. Try wearing full sleeves when you step out on a sunny day. It might be hot, or it might not be the fashion statement of the year, but you'd rather put up with a little more perspiration on your arms or risk being out of vogue than risk getting malignant skin tumors.
The eyes, too, are sensitive organs and need to be protected from ultraviolet radiations. Wearing sunglasses is the best way of doing this . Ensure you own a pair that is of good quality rather than pick up cheap ones. They do more harm than good. If you are in an environment where there's sand or snow around, remember that UV rays are reflected off them, hitting your eyes from underneath and cause temporary or permanent damage to the eye. This is called Snow Blindness and the best way of preventing it is to wear sunglasses that cut out UV rays coming in from all directions, including the sides and bottom.
We cannot do much to prevent UV radiations reaching us, However, adequate, timely protection goes a long way in preventing sunburns and cancers. And if it means rubbing on some sunscreen, then why not do so?
Best Regards
Prakash Nair
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