Understanding the Effect of UV Rays on Your Skin and Health

Ultraviolet rays are known to have a damaging effect on your skin and health. UV radiation is a small portion of the energy produced by the sun. Your eyes can't see ultraviolet rays, but your skin can feel them as the wavelengths of UV light is shorter than visible light. The UV energy produced by the sun reaches the Earth and helps you survive by providing vitamin D for your body. UV radiation can also be found in human-made sources such as tanning beds. Too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

UVA and UVB are the two types of light contributing to skin cancer risk. Unprotected exposure to UVB and UVA can also lead to premature ageing, tanning and eye damage, including eyelid cancers and cataracts. UVA penetrates the skin layers, where blood vessels and connective tissue are affected. Due to adverse sun effects, the skin loses its elasticity over time and starts to wrinkle. It is therefore recommended to apply a high SPF sun protection sunscreen whenever you go out in the sun.

Can too much sun exposure make you sick?

Too much sun exposure can lead to severe sun effects, including heat stroke, sunburn, sun poisoning, tanning, water intoxication and dehydration. It can also lead to sun poisoning, which is an allergic reaction that burns and itches badly. It seems like a flu bug and can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Peeling skin or blistering
• Lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Fever
• Tingling
• Swelling

If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, drink plenty of electrolytes and water to stay hydrated. You should also avoid touching the affected areas; otherwise, it can lead to infection. Depending on the severity of the sun poisoning, it can last for weeks. If you notice any oozing or bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They will help you in getting the best treatment as per your specific condition.

Tips to reverse skin damage from the sun

Sun exposure can have adverse sun effects on your skin. It can lead to skin damage, hyperpigmentation, sunburn, brown spots and wrinkled skin. Sun exposure can also cause tanning, skin cancer and uneven complexion. But you can reverse the signs of skin damage and protect yourself from skin cancer by following these tips.

• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for sun protection. By applying sunscreen, you not only protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation but also allows the skin to actively reverse old damage and give it time to heal.
• You should also avoid going in the sun from 11 am to 4 pm when the humidity is at its peak. You should also wear a hat and cover your face with a cloth while going out in the sun.
• Exfoliate your skin regularly to remove the build-up of dead skin cells. You can use a physical or a chemical exfoliator to exfoliate your skin. But remember not to over-exfoliate, as it can damage your skin's barrier. You can also use an antioxidant serum like vitamin C, green tea and vitamin E to help skin cells repair their DNA.
• Topical creams containing hyaluronic acid or AHA can also be used to reverse the signs of skin damage. Vitamin A derivatives can be used to fade hyperpigmentation and sunburn caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. It will increase epidermal cell turnover and may be available OTC or prescription. These creams can also reduce the effects of ageing on the skin.
• Chemical peels can also be done to brighten and smooth your complexion, correct blemishes and scars, sunburn, tanning, fade spots, ease dark patches, and reduce fine lines.
• Photodynamic therapy can also be used to prevent and treat precancers. This is a medical procedure wherein sun-damaged skin cells are targeted. Cosmetic lasers can improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
• Microdermabrasion can also be helpful in reversing the effects of sun damage on your skin. This minimally invasive procedure exfoliates the dead skin cells' outermost layer and removes dark spots, sunburn, pigmentation, tanning, common skin disorders caused by the UV rays and discolouration caused by sun damage.

You should also perform skin self-exams regularly to notice new growths or sudden changes.

When should I consult my dermatologist or healthcare provider?

You should consult your dermatologist if you have accumulated a lot of sun damage. Consider seeking treatment for it if you have repeated or severe sunburn. You should also consult your dermatologist if you're self-conscious about your skin's appearance or if you have a spot on your skin that spontaneously bleeds. If you notice changing spots or moles that are white, red, black or brown, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Before your appointment, list your medications — including nonprescription drugs, herbs and medications. Some drugs and medicines can even increase your sensitivity to UV radiation. In case your doctor notices unusual skin signs, they may refer you to a doctor who specializes in skin diseases.