Sun Rays and Skin Health

Sun Rays and Skin Health Experts warn: "Even when the sun is not visible, it penetrates the skin." In today's conditions, using sun protection has become important in both summer and winter months. Experts say that the harmful effects of the sun penetrate the skin even when it is out of sight. Altınbaş University Faculty of Medicine Assistant Professor and Dermatologist Dr. Seher Küçükoğlu Cesur stated that UV rays from the sun pass through cloud filters by up to 80 percent. She warned that "uncontrolled sun rays cause sunburn, skin aging, spots, some precancerous skin conditions, and most importantly, skin cancer." Dr. Seher Küçükoğlu Cesur said that our bodies need sun rays for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin. However, she noted that the harmful side effects are most often caused by intense sun rays in the summer months, and unfortunately the risk does not decrease as air temperature drops.

Be cautious during seasonal transitions

Dr. Seher Küçükoğlu Cesur, noting that dryness and increased eczema-related conditions are the most common skin problems especially during seasonal transitions, stated: "Seborrheic dermatitis, known as oily eczema among the public, appears as dryness, redness and scaling on the face, scalp, behind the ears and on the front of the chest. This skin condition, which is especially common during seasonal transitions, should be treated with medical treatments along with abundant moisturizer use."

Be careful when choosing sunscreen

Noting that the summer season is beginning as temperatures rise, Dr. Seher Küçükoğlu offered recommendations for those who cannot give up sunbathing. She noted that the protective effects of sun protection products begin at SPF 20 and continue increasing up to SPF 50. Dr. Küçükoğlu Cesur stated: "Those who want to tan while protecting themselves from the harmful effects of the sun should use sun protection products. Sunscreen should be applied to all sun-exposed areas about 20 minutes before going out in the sun and should be reapplied at 2-3 hour intervals."

"Physical sunscreens are safe"

She advised paying attention to the SPF factor that protects against both UVB and UVA rays when choosing sunscreen. "SPF 15 protects our skin by 93 percent against sun rays, SPF 30 by 97 percent, and SPF 50 by 98 percent. Sun protection products containing physical filters protect against the sun by forming a layer on the skin surface without being absorbed by the skin. This type of physical sun protection is found in products for babies and children. Because they are not fully absorbed, they have no harmful effects and can be used safely," she said. Adding to this, Dr. Küçükoğlu Cesur noted that recently a wide range of products has been defined, including products for acne, anti-aging, spot-specific, concealing formulations, combined with moisturizers, and ultra-light products that individuals can choose based on their skin type. She said that cream formulations are preferred especially for dry skin, while lotions and sprays can be preferred for body use.

Healthy tanning

Dr. Küçükoğlu Cesur, saying that having a bronze complexion is certainly desirable but one must not compromise health in the process, warned against sun exposure between 10:30-15:30 when the sun is most effective. Dr. Küçükoğlu Cesur, noting that frequent movement and position changes are necessary for even tanning, continued as follows: "Always protect your face and eyes from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Tanning, swimming pools and the sea dry out the skin. Using abundant moisturizer maintains skin elasticity and helps it look healthy. Careless sun exposure can cause burns and spots on the skin. Be careful about damage that occurs, including intense redness, burning sensation, itching and skin swelling in advanced stages."