Summer is coming: first contact with the sun – common problems and 5 top tips

Direct exposure to the sun after winter, when we take off our outerwear and go to the beach in shorts or a swimsuit, in addition to beneficial effects, carries with it several risks.

Exposure to sunlight, with the right precautions, has significant benefits for our health, but also carries several risks, causing various skin diseases. The positive aspects include the fact that it is the main source of the synthesis of vitamin D, which is important not only for bone health, but, according to recent studies, for the prevention of various forms of cancer, writes lifo.gr.

The sun also affects our mental health, as more sunlight creates a better mood, and a lack of it can even lead to depression. In addition, the therapeutic effect of sunlight on inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema has been known for many years.

The most common skin diseases from aggressive solar radiation

Sun exposure, in addition to its beneficial effect, carries several risks, such as the risk of developing skin cancer (with the main threat of melanoma), sunburn, photodermatitis. Clinical manifestations sunburn range from mild erythema (redness) to blistering. Sunburn is an important risk factor for skin cancer and photoaging, so we always use sunscreenand.

Other diseases that worsen in the sun are herpes, rosacea, lupus erythematosus. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation can also cause drug photosensitivity. This is a skin reaction that occurs after local or systemic (oral) administration of the drug and exposure to sunlight. During antibiotic treatment, it is better not to go to the beach. The bare minimum you can get is hives.

Drugs that often cause photosensitivity are antibiotics (eg, tetracyclines), antidepressants, antihypertensives, antidiabetics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Photodermatitis is a common skin reaction to the sun. They are caused by the action of sunlight combined with previous topical application of substances often found in cosmetics and perfumes. The skin turns red, flaky and itchy. To avoid such reactions, you should be especially careful when using cosmetics before sun exposure.

Another skin condition that occurs after first exposure to the sun in early summer and tends to recur every year at the same time is rash multiforme. It is manifested by an itchy rash consisting of spots, papules (small red pimples) and even blisters on exposed areas of the body. Areas of the body that are constantly exposed (face, neck) are less affected. Most patients experience a gradual improvement over the summer as they are more exposed to the sun and the skin becomes more tolerant of the sun.

Basic Tips

For effective sun protection and prevention of skin diseases caused by ultraviolet radiation, experts recommend:

1. Avoid intense sun exposure. Ultraviolet rays even let through clouds, so they need protection on cloudy days. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and skin-protective clothing (light shirt, long-sleeved cape).

2. Use a sunscreen with a broad spectrum of protection.

3. UVB+UVA and high protection index (SPF>25).

4. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen if you swim in the sea or sweat a lot.

5. Check with your doctor if you are taking medication that makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.

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