Sun exposure can have profound effects on our skin, and not all of them are beneficial. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, though invisible, can pass through the skin, leading to cell damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. This article delves into the impact of sun exposure and offers tips to protect your skin effectively.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays, an invisible form of radiation, can permeate our skin, causing significant damage. They are responsible for sunburns, a sign of skin damage, and even suntans, which occur when the sun's rays have already harmed some cells and damaged others. UV rays do not discriminate by season or temperature; their harmful effects can occur anytime and anywhere. Apart from skin damage, UV rays can lead to eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots, and in the worst-case scenario, skin cancer.

To safeguard your skin and overall health from the harmful effects of UV rays, consider the following protective measures:

• Stay out of the sun when it is at its strongest, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher
• Wear protective clothing that can shield your skin from the sun
• Wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100% UV ray protection
• Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds, as they can also emit damaging UV radiation

Regular skin check-ups can play a crucial role in early detection of skin cancer. Monitor for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots, as such changes could indicate skin cancer.