Tips to Get Your Skin Ready for Sun Exposure

Dr. Thanyathorn Sojayaya, Dermatologist

Dermatology Center, Vibhavadi Hospital

Tips to Get Your Skin Ready for Sun Exposure

In the past, sunbathing was a popular activity for white people because it was believed that having dark brown skin meant having healthy skin. However, recent studies have shown that sunlight can be dangerous, especially for the skin and eyes due to the high levels of radiation it contains, although some of it is filtered out by the atmosphere. Ultraviolet A and B rays can also pass through the earth's surface.

Radiation is partially filtered by the atmosphere, including ozone, water vapor, clouds, and fog. In cities, large amounts of smoke and dust pollution also filter out ultraviolet radiation, resulting in less ultraviolet radiation than in the countryside or seaside, where the sky is clear. In the past, there was less ultraviolet radiation on the surface of the earth than there is today due to the use of CFC aircraft and atomic weapons, which destroy the ozone layer and allow more ultraviolet rays to penetrate.

The level of danger that sunlight poses to the skin can vary based on several factors, including:

1.  The strength of sunlight, which is typically strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.

2.  The length of time spent exposed to sunlight, with longer exposure resulting in more significant effects compared to short-term exposure.

3.  Accumulated exposure to sunlight since childhood, which can result in long-term effects that may manifest during adulthood.

4.  Skin characteristics, with white individuals typically being less tolerant of sun exposure compared to those with darker skin. This is because individuals with darker skin have melanin pigment, which absorbs radiation and prevents damage to the skin.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can have harmful effects on the skin, ranging from redness and burning to darkening and the formation of pigments like freckles or blemishes. Ultraviolet A, which has a longer wavelength, can penetrate deep into the skin and cause free radicals that damage skin cells, connective tissues, and immune cells. This can result in thin, wrinkled, dry, and easily infected skin, which may increase the risk of developing abnormal genetic proteins, tumors, and skin cancer.

While the human body has a process to eliminate free radicals or repair genetic proteins, aging or excessive exposure to free radicals can compromise the body's defense and repair process.

To protect the skin, it is important to take general care, including using mild soap, avoiding hot showers, applying lotion or nourishing cream, wearing protective clothing and accessories, and applying sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by getting enough rest, exercise, and a variety of vitamins while avoiding junk food, alcohol, and smoking can help combat the effects of free radicals.

It is essential to start taking care of our skin today to avoid the dangers of sunlight and other harmful factors. New technologies like iontophoresis, phonotherapy, laser, radio frequency, or light can help correct skin abnormalities, but it is crucial to choose reliable and trustworthy services. By doing so, we can help keep our skin healthy and looking youthful, regardless of our age.

For more information, please contact the Skin Center 0-2561-1111 press 1.