THE human skin it is an extremely important organ for our survival, as it guarantees, for example, protection against different agents and enables the organism's thermoregulation. By coating our body, the skin is constantly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can trigger serious problems if exposure is inadequate.
It is important to point out that, despite being able to cause damage to the skin, ultraviolet radiation is fundamental for the vitamin D synthesis. In addition to this well-known function of regulating the concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the body, vitamin D may be related, according to some studies, to the reducing the risks of breast cancers, prostate and colorectal.
→ What are the dangers of exposure to ultraviolet rays for the skin?
ultraviolet rays affect the skin in many ways, and although some are beneficial, such as vitamin D synthesis, there are some that are harmful. UV damage, however, is triggered by over-exposure and inadequate exposure over time and is caused by a cumulative effect.
UV radiation can interfere with the cell's DNA and trigger mutations that can result in malignant neoplasms (cancer). In addition, radiation affects the cutaneous immune system, causing a inflammatory response in the skin, as well as premature aging, cataracts, photoconjunctivitis, progressive loss of vision and chemical and histological changes in the superficial layer of the skin (epidermis).
→ How important are sunscreens?
Faced with so many harmful effects caused by UV radiation, it is necessary to protect the skin. For this, various accessories can be used, such as hats, caps, glasses and clothing, however, photoprotection is not always efficient in these cases. In this sense, the sunscreens, which are efficient cosmetics found in the form of lotions, oils, gels, emulsions, among other forms of presentation.
You sunscreens feature filters that absorb, reflect, or scatter ultraviolet radiation. To determine the quality of protection of these filters, we must analyze the sun protection factor (SPF) of these products. The SPF can be defined as the relationship between the time required for ultraviolet radiation to cause an erythematous reaction (redness) in the protected skin compared to the same skin without any protection. Imagine, for example, that a person chooses an SPF 30 sunscreen. The time of sun exposure necessary for the redness to occur, in this case, will be 30 times greater in relation to the time without the protector.
Thus, the use of sunscreen, in the short term, prevents a possible sunburn. However, we should not review this product for just a short period of use, as regular use can bring great health benefits., among which we can mention:
Reduced chances of developing some types of skin cancer;
Reduction in cases of actinic keratosis – benign neoplasms that have the potential to develop into skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma;
Delay of skin aging.
Heads up: The use of sunscreen should be done daily by all people, regardless of gender or skin color.
By Ma. Vanessa Sardinha dos Santos
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/saude-na-escola/importancia-dos-protetores-solares.htm
