Laurel Kelly | Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS)
July marks UV Safety Month, providing an opportune time to educate oneself on sunburn and the importance of safeguarding your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun. Sunburn is characterized by inflamed and painful skin that feels hot to the touch, resulting from overexposure to UV light. This UV light can come from both natural sources like the sun and artificial sources such as sunlamps and tanning beds. It’s important to note that UVA wavelengths of light can penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage, while UVB wavelengths affect the superficial layers and lead to sunburn.
When skin cells are exposed to UV light, they undergo damage, triggering the immune system to respond by increasing blood flow to the affected areas. This response manifests as the inflamed and painful skin known as sunburn. Keep in mind that any part of your body that is exposed can burn, including your earlobes, scalp, and lips. Additionally, even covered areas may burn if the clothing has a loose weave that allows UV light to penetrate. Your eyes are highly sensitive to the sun’s UV light and can also experience sunburn. It’s important to exercise caution as sunburn can occur on cool or cloudy days, as well as when surfaces like snow, sand, and water reflect UV rays.
Signs and symptoms of sunburn typically appear within a few hours after sun exposure, though it may take some time to ascertain the severity of the burn. Severe sunburn may necessitate medical attention.
Prolonged and repeated exposure to UV light resulting in sunburn increases the risk of various skin damage, such as wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancers like melanoma. Protecting yourself from UV radiation damage is crucial. Here are four effective ways to do so:
1. Time of day: Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the UV rays are at their strongest. Be aware that clouds offer minimal protection, and UV rays can bounce off surfaces like water, sand, snow, or pavement, leading to higher UV exposure.
2. Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or perspiring. Ensure all exposed areas are covered, including the lips, ear tips, hands, and neck. Make sure to check sunscreen expiration dates if using leftovers from previous years. Learn more about selecting the best sunscreen.
3. Sunglasses: UV radiation can cause damage to your eyes, resulting in painful or gritty sensations. Excessive UV light exposure can harm the retina, lens, and cornea, potentially leading to cataracts or ocular melanoma. Opt for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Get informed on choosing the most suitable sunglasses.
4. Protective clothing: Remember that sunscreens alone don’t offer comprehensive protection from UV rays. Wear dark and tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs, along with a broad-brimmed hat for enhanced protection. Some companies provide photoprotective clothing with a UPF (UV protection factor) rating similar to SPF ratings of sunscreens. Explore the benefits of UPF clothing.
While outdoor activities and exercise contribute to overall well-being, it’s essential to prioritize skin protection and sun safety. Knowing how to safeguard your skin enables you to enjoy the sun’s rays safely.
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