Protecting Yourself from the Sun

The Sun and Its Dangers

Summer and holidays are a chance for many to enjoy the sun. However, contrary to popular belief, the feeling of well-being experienced during sun exposure is primarily subjective.

While there is indeed a "positive" effect, it is due to the visible light received by the eyes, not the UV rays absorbed by the skin. But beware: while UV exposure has benefits, it also carries risks—no matter where in the world you are.

The Traps

Sunburn

The first signs of sun damage, sunburn causes the death of millions of cells and can result in second-degree burns if UV rays penetrate deep layers of the skin. Reactions due to medication, cosmetics, or contact with plants may also occur after exposure, often leading to rashes, eczema, or sunburn that is disproportionately severe given the amount of UV received.

Other Harmful Effects

Less visible in the short term, skin aging is accelerated by excessive UVA absorption. These rays penetrate deeply, causing a loss of elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.

Sun exposure also carries a major, often overlooked risk: skin cancer, with new cases doubling every decade. Women are particularly at risk.

Finally, the eyes, highly sensitive to solar rays, can also be affected by excessive UV exposure, leading to conditions like snow blindness and cataracts. The leading cause of blindness worldwide, cataracts typically affect older individuals, though the risk begins in childhood.

Protection

Exposure

Everyone should learn to manage their exposure based on their skin type, family history, and UV intensity. UV rays are deceptive: invisible, they produce no heat, can pass through clouds, and vary by time, date, latitude, and altitude. The UV index is a universal scale to assess risks.

Some general principles apply. Before puberty, children are more vulnerable than adults; naps and shaded activities are recommended. The most effective protection is clothing, supplemented by a hat and sunscreen on exposed areas. Avoiding sun exposure between noon and 4:00 PM also significantly reduces risk.

Sunscreen and More

Ironically, sunscreen can increase certain risks by encouraging longer sun exposure. It should be used to reduce sun damage, not to extend time in the sun.

In most cases, an SPF 25 sunscreen is sufficient. For particularly sensitive skin, opt for higher protection, such as SPF 40. For naturally darker skin, SPF 15 may be enough. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, or more frequently during intense activities like hiking, swimming, or adventure sports.

Don’t forget your eyes. At minimum, choose category 3 sunglasses for effective protection.

To prepare for tanning, dietary supplements containing vitamins A, C, and E can help the skin optimize its defenses. However, these do not protect against UV rays.

Finally, your dermatologist may recommend a few preliminary UV sessions based on your tanning ability.