We’re starting to see blossom appear on trees again, which can only mean one thing – spring is on the way! And this means that we’re all going to start heading out and about to enjoy some lovely sunshine… and even more of it as we edge ever closer to summertime.
But what’s important to remember as the weather improves is that we need to make sure we’re taking proper care of our skin as the sun shines down upon it. We all know the importance of wearing suncream when it’s nice outside and, arguably, you should be doing this all year round to be on the safe side.
The harmful effects of sunlight come from the UV radiation, which can be divided into two different types – UVB and UVA. UVB is what causes sunburn, but if you’re concerned about the ageing process and getting premature fine lines and wrinkles, it’s the UVA rays you really need to be worried about.
These penetrate more deeply into your skin and this is what creates wrinkles and brown pigmentation. But it’s important to remember that both phototypes will contribute to skin cancer, so be mindful of this and always wear suncream regardless, preferably one that is labelled Broad Spectrum, as this will cover you for both.
Of course, you do need some vitamin D to maintain healthy bones and muscles, a vitamin that is produced in our skin after it’s been exposed to UV light. You can also get vitamin D from some foods (like oily fish), as well as taking supplements – but you should get enough just by exposing your face and arms to light throughout the day.
Some opt to use sunbeds to build up a tan and get more vitamin D, but sunbed use can cause ageing of the skin, as well as increasing your risk of developing skin cancer. According to the NHS, many sunbeds give out greater amounts of UV rays than the midday tropical sun – so think about what you’re doing to your skin.
Apparently, there is also evidence showing that people frequently exposed to UV rays before they reach 25 are at greater risk of developing skin cancer later on. And sunburn in childhood can greatly increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Bear in mind that UVA rays make up 95 per cent of sunlight and these are the rays that cause premature ageing of the skin.
The Health and Safety Executive has issued some advice on the health risks of UV tanning equipment, recommending that you avoid tanning if you have fair or sensitive skin that burns easily or tans slowly, as well as lots of freckles and red hair, lots of moles or are taking medication that makes skin sensitive to sunlight.
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