SOLAR UV : THE TRUTH BEHIND IT
Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun that has a shorter wavelength than visible light. It is divided into three categories based on wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is absorbed by the Earth's ozone layer and does not reach the surface, while UVA and UVB are the two types that can cause damage to our skin. UVB rays are capable of reaching the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis), hence known as 'burning rays'. They are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and skin cancer.On the other hand, UVA rays are capable of penetrating the middle layer of the skin (the dermis). They also contribute to skin damage and skin cancer, and are responsible for approximately 80% of premature aging signs visible on the skin.
UVR is a known carcinogen, which means it has the potential to cause cancer in living tissues. When UVR penetrates the skin, it can cause damage to DNA, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer over time. It is estimated that up to 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by exposure to UVR. Unlike temperature, UVR cannot be felt or seen by the human eye. This is why it is important to protect your skin even on cloudy or overcast days, as UVR can still penetrate through clouds and cause damage to the skin. It is also important to be aware that UVR can bounce off reflective surfaces like water, sand, snow, and even some building materials, increasing the exposure to the skin.
To protect yourself from the harmful effects of UVR, it is recommended to seek shade during peak sun hours, wear protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, use sunscreen with a high SPF, and wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. These measures can help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer and other skin damage caused by UVR.