Skin Protection – A Look At UV Radiation And Other Factors

Fact remains that skin protection is among the most talked about topics when it comes to human health. In fact, research and discussion surrounding this issue has been rising in the last decade as people seek to solutions to protecting the skin against different elements. As the largest organ in the human body, the skin is most exposed to the environment. This means it is also the most susceptible to damaging compounds that will affect its functionality. There are several things that can bring harm to the skin; however, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the most harmful. And failure to combat it as well as its effects may lead to permanent or life-threatening conditions.

What Is UV Radiation?

It’s true that good sunshine is not only relaxing and satisfying but also healthy. It provides vitamin D which is essential for skin functioning, smoothness and elasticity, boosting immunity, as well as managing melanin (skin pigment). The most beneficial Vitamin is D3 which is scientifically known as cholecalciferol and is most abundant in UVB. The more the exposure to the sun the higher the volume of the essential vitamin. Unfortunately, too much exposure to the same sun also comes with great risks as it also exposes a person to UV radiation which is quite damaging. Ultra-violet rays contribute to premature aging, skin discoloration, sagging, poor elasticity and more.

How Does UV Harm The Skin?

When talking about skin protection, focus is always on minimizing ultra-violet radiation. UV rays bring harm to the skin by destroying vital skin elements. Staying out in the sun for too long over many years damages certain skin fibers known as elastin. This compound is necessary for healthy and youthful skin and is what influences how elastic the skin is. UV radiation destroys the tiny microfibers making them rigid or tearing them part. This causes the skin to lose its elasticity, flexibility, as well as smoothness. Some of the symptoms that crop up include leathering, sagging skin, skin blemishes, fine lines, wrinkles and more. Also, the skin takes a longer time to heal incase it gets bruised.

How Is UV Radiation and Cancer Related?

According to statistics, cases of skin cancer have been on the rise in not only the US but in the world as well. Further research indicates that UV radiation is the number one cause of the skin cancer. The condition comes about when the body is unable to control the production of skin cells leading to excess growth that come in form of tumors. The growth which can either be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant) comes in three types: squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell cases are the most common and account for 95% of the skin cancer cases. They are not as serious as Melanoma and are much easier to treat if detected early enough. Melanoma is the most serious and accounts for 75% of deaths from skin cancer. It can easily spread to other regions and organs if not treated early.

What Can Be Done To Prevent The Damage?

Of late, a lot of emphasis is being placed on skin protection. Many people discover the cancer when it has advanced to critical levels, and at this stage, chances of completely getting rid of the condition are much lower. This is why people are encouraged to prevent it from happening in the first place. There are several ways of preventing UV radiation and risk of conditions such as cancer. One, avoid spending too much time in the open sun as this increases the risk. Two, take cover from strong sun especially from 10am to 4pm.Three, avoid UV tanning booths as they still expose you to UV radiation. Four, rather than going to the sun or tanning booths, adopt a healthy diet that is rich in vitamin D. Good sources include salmon, orange juice, fortified milk and more. Five, cover up when necessary by wearing uv-blocking sunglasses and broad-brimmed hat. Six, apply sunscreen that has a rating of SPS 15 or higher. Seven, avoid sunburns.

It’s true that damage from overexposure to UV radiation for instance, sagging skin, wrinkled skin, discolored skin, leathering, cancer and other issues can be treated. However, chances of fully recovering from the condition are minimal especially if it’s detected when it’s too late. To avoid permanent damage, or risk of death, it’s best to prevent the negative effects whenever possible. This can be done by avoiding UV tanning booths, and minimizing exposure to the sun UV rays which can be achieved by wearing UV protective swimsuits such as sunsuits and stinger suits. In addition to smooth, radiant, and youthful skin, proper skin protection guarantees you of good health.