Are there specific signs your body gives the effects of too much sun exposure causes damage?
Spending time in the sun is a bit of a no-no if you have certain skin conditions. It’s best to stay out of the sun altogether if you have atopic dermatitis or if your skin type is categorized as ‘very pale light’.
Other than that, the sun provides benefits such as vitamin D, gorgeous skin, and a pleasant mood.
We’ll cover all of this below.
Eyelid and Skin Damage
Prolonged exposure can cause photokeratitis, which is an inflammation of the cornea caused by ultraviolet radiation. When exposed to UV radiation from the sun, the thin layers of skin around the eyes become thin and allow UV rays to enter and damage the tissue.
This can also lead to photodermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin, resulting in redness, itching, and blistering. Long-term effects include skin damage to the skin cells and the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.
Increased Risk of Skin Cancer
UV rays can pierce deep into the skin, resulting in the breakdown of the skin’s protective barrier, accelerating the aging process and weakening the skin’s natural defense system. Additionally, UV radiation can cause sunburns, wrinkles, and age spots, further increasing the risk of developing skin cancer.
Furthermore, those with lighter skin tones, who are more prone to the damaging effects of the sun, are even more at risk of developing this dangerous condition. Find more information here and take precautionary measures such as wearing sunscreen and avoiding the sun when it is at its strongest.
Vitamin D Deficiency
This is because Vitamin D synthesis only occurs in the skin when it is in contact with UV, the same things that cause the skin to burn in excessive exposure. Sunburn blocks the UV, resulting in a decrease in Vitamin D synthesis.
Therefore, avoiding the effects of too much sun exposure and wearing sunscreen when outside can help protect against Vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, for people who do not get enough sun, there are Vitamin D supplements that can be taken to increase the body’s Vitamin D levels.
Premature Aging
Over-exposure can lead to wrinkling and sagging of the skin, dark spots, and discoloration. Not only does it increase our risk of skin cancer, but it can also lead to premature aging. The sun emits ultraviolet rays, which cause the skin to age faster than normal.
The skin may also become dry and itchy, leading to an overall weathered, aged appearance. Sunburns, often associated with too much sun, can leave behind red or brown patches that can make the skin appear older than it really is.
Overheating and Dehydration
The body’s natural cooling system works by releasing sweat to the surface of the skin. Symptoms of both overheating and dehydration include headaches, chills, dizziness, muscle cramps, and extreme fatigue.
Severe cases can cause hyperthermia, fainting, confusion, and even coma. To prevent these problems, it’s important to wear sunscreen, cover up with clothes, and take frequent breaks to rest in cooler climates with access to water.
Read the Effects of Too Much Sun Exposure
Sun exposure has multiple effects on our skin and health, from UV exposure to tanning and skin damage. Prolonged, unprotected the effects of too much sun exposure can even cause burning and dehydration.
To avoid these risks, practice healthy sun safety habits, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, especially when outside for long periods of time.
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