THE SOLAR RADIATION:
The sun is our main source of light and energy and has many benefits among which is activating vitamin D, which is essential in the proper functioning of our bones.
However, when we expose ourselves for a long time and without the necessary care such as the use of sunscreen on a daily basis, it can have harmful effects on our health.
TYPES OF RADIATION:
There are different types of solar radiation, such as ultraviolet B rays (RUVB) that are responsible for reddening the skin when we are exposed to the sun without sunscreen and can cause skin cancer that is the most common type of cancer today In Colombia. Ultraviolet A (RUVA) rays are responsible for allergies to the sun and the appearance of wrinkles or photoaging.
WHY DO SKIN TYPES BURN MORE THAN OTHERS IN THE SUN?
- These skin types are called phototypes and are classified as follows:
- They are the skins that always burn and never tan, which also have eye and light hair.
- They almost always burn and sometimes tan.
- Sometimes it burns and usually tan.
- Rare to burn and always tan.
- Pigmented races
- Black race.
- Phototypes 1 and 2 have a higher risk of skin cancer, therefore they must take more stringent protection measures.
WHAT IS A SUNSCREEN?
The sunscreen is a cosmetic product that contains substances that are capable of absorbing radiation, called chemical filters, or that are capable of bouncing radiation, that is, physical filters, thus protecting against the harmful effects of the sun.
As a dermatologist I recommend sunscreen with a protection factor or SPF greater than 30, this means the ability to delay the appearance of sunburn and that should protect against RUVB, in addition, it should have protection against RUVA.
SPF 30, 50 or 100 is not a percentage, this has been determined by scientific editions, and for example, a sunscreen with SPF 50 protects 97% of sunburn and 100 protects 98%, in conclusion, there is no 100% protection.
WHO RECOMMENDATIONS (WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION):
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm since the sun's rays arrive more directly and intensely in that period of time.
- Look for the shadow when the sun's rays are more intense.
- Do not forget that umbrellas, trees or awnings do not fully protect.
- Choose wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with a 99 to 100% protection rating, as the sun can cause cataracts.
- Prefer clothes with long sleeves or clothes with sunscreen.
- Use sunscreen daily with SPF 30 and up, with protection against RUVB and RUVA.
- Apply sunscreen at least 3 times a day if you sweat or swim.
- Avoid tanning beds, as studies show that they also cause skin cancer and can damage the eyes.
- Children can be given sunscreen after 6 months of life.
TIPS TO CHOOSE YOUR SOLAR PROTECTOR:
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The most important: SPF greater than 30.
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Take into account your skin type, if it is fat that is gel if it is dry in emulsion or cream.
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If you are going to be at the beach or pool, apply waterproof sunscreen every 80 min.
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If you want to unify the tone of your skin on the face takes advantage of sunscreen options with color.
Enjoy the sun but in moderation!