5 Negative Consequences Of Sun Damage And What You Can Do To Protect Yourself

Relaxing in the warm sun can feel good after a long day at work or school. You might want to play with your children in the sun, such as riding bikes together or tossing a ball back and forth. The sun is also a way that you can add color to the skin. However, there are a few consequences that you might experience if you stay in the sun for long periods of time without some kind of protection, such as sunscreen and sunglasses.

Sunburn

This is the most common type of problem that occurs from being in the sun, and it’s the easiest that can be prevented. Some burns can sometimes be third-degree, which can damage the nerves under the top layers of skin. This is usually seen if you are outside for long periods at a time or if the temperatures are very hot. The easiest way to prevent a sunburn is to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 35. If you are going to be in a pool, then you need to wear something that is water proof.

Cancer

In some instances, skin cancer can develop. Some people are prone to skin cancer while others can see cells grow after being exposed to the sun. Those who spend a lot of time in the sun while they are younger often see small moles that develop later in life. These can sometimes turn to cancer. It’s important to go to your doctor to get your moles checked regularly.

Eyesight

Being in the sun without wearing sunglasses can cause damage to the tissue in the eyes. If the condition isn’t treated or you continue to spend time in the sun without sunglasses or a large hat that shields the eyes, then other problems could occur. If you wear glasses, consider getting prescription sunglasses to wear during the summer to protect your eyes.

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Immune System

Sun exposure can remove some of the vitamins from the body, which can lower the response of the immune system if there is an illness. This often takes place if the skin is sunburned. While outside, it’s important to drink plenty of water so that the body can stay hydrated. This can help slow the process of burning the skin and prevent some of the vitamins from being released through sweating.

Aging

Wrinkles and lines around the eyes can sometimes be seen because of long-term exposure to the sun. You might see that the skin loses elasticity as well. This can mean that the skin is tighter than normal. Hydration and sunscreen can relieve some of these issues. You should use a higher SPF on the face than the rest of the body.

While being in the sun is warming, too much time without protection can result in damage to the skin and eyes. You might notice a sunburn that results in red skin that is painful to the touch or brown spots that could turn to cancer. Cover the skin with sunscreen to help prevent these conditions if you are planning on being outside for an extended period or during the hottest part of the day. Sunglasses can also help protect the eyes from the harmful UV rays. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have.