In the right amount, UV rays are needed by the body because they can provide a number of health benefits. However, UV rays can also be harmful and actually cause health problems if they are exposed to excess.
The sun is the main source of UV rays. Basically, UV rays are needed by the body to produce vitamin D. This vitamin serves to increase the strength of bones and teeth, and helps the absorption of calcium in the body.
However, UV rays will only benefit the body as long as it is obtained in sufficient quantities. If excessive, UV rays will actually damage body tissues, and even increase the risk of certain diseases.
The Dangers of UV Rays for Health
UV rays are divided into several types, but the most common are UVA and UVB. UVB rays are only able to reach the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), while UVA rays can reach up to the middle layer of the skin (dermis).
The following are a number of health problems that can arise from overexposure to UV rays:
Burnt skin
Burnt skin (sunburn) are the most common effects of overexposure to UV rays. This condition can make the skin appear red, and feel warm and painful to the touch.
Symptom sunburn It usually appears within a few hours of overexposure to UV rays, but can also occur 1–2 days later.
In severe cases, sunburn can even cause swelling of the skin, skin blisters, and weakness due to dehydration. If you experience this, you need to immediately get treatment from a doctor.
Eye damage
When in the sun, not only the skin needs to be protected from UV exposure, the eyes also need extra protection. This is because the eye is one of the organs most susceptible to damage if it is frequently exposed to UV rays.
Overexposure to UV rays can cause damage to the eyes leading to decreased ability to see color, blurred vision, or even permanent blindness.
Skin cancer
Excessive UV exposure is one of the most common causes of skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Usually, cancer cells form in parts of the body that are often exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck, and hands.
If not treated immediately, cancer can spread to other parts of the skin and even internal organs. Although rare, this condition is classified as dangerous and can be life threatening.
How to Protect Skin from the Impact of UV Rays
To prevent the occurrence of health problems due to excessive UV exposure, you can do the following ways:
1. Use sunscreen cream regularly
To protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, always use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 at least 15 minutes before going outside during the day. Don't forget to reapply sunscreen regularly after 1 hour of use.
To be safer, the use of sunscreen or sunscreen also needs to be done even though you are indoors. You also need to use sunblock evenly over various parts of the body, including the face, neck, ears, eyes, lips and back.
2. Wear covered clothes
In addition to using sunscreen, you can also wear clothing that is covered to protect your skin from direct sunlight. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and a hat with a wide brim.
3. Avoid sun exposure at certain times
As much as possible, avoid spending too much time outside the house from 10 am to 2 pm, because UV radiation is at its highest.
4. Wear sunglasses
As previously explained, the sun's rays can not only harm the skin, but also the eyes. Therefore, use sunglasses or anti-radiation glasses that can provide protection against UV rays when you are active outside the room.
Although UV rays can have a bad effect on health, that doesn't mean you have to avoid them altogether. UV rays also have health benefits, as long as the exposure is not too long or at a safe hour, which is around 7-9 am.
If you are often active in the hot sun and experience skin problems or other health problems due to excessive UV exposure, you should consult a doctor.