The sun benefits our skin in several ways:

• improves resistance and ability to regenerate,
• reduces microbial population in the surface,
• increases blood circulation to the skin and vitamin D levels.

If we expose it to the sun for too long, it can easily get burned.

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which has three components:

• UVA (causes skin problems - pigment spots, skin allergies, premature skin aging),
• UVB (responsible for burns and sunburn),
• UVC (radiation is blocked by the ozone layer).

UVA and UVB are involved in skin damage during tanning. The skin remembers, adds up the individual effects and thus increases the risk (there is a risk of skin cancer).

We divide sun protection into:

• mechanical (head and neck cover, goggles with quality UV filter, suitable clothing),
• cosmetic (application of sunscreens).

It is advisable to combine both methods.

For sufficient protection, it is necessary to apply (depending on the factor and activity used) a large and even layer of the product several times a day to protect the skin. It is necessary to spread on the body an amount of the product with a volume of six coffee spoons (approx. 30 ml) and on the face about one teaspoon (approx. 5 ml). Areas with scars, marks and pigment spots require special attention.

Sun protection products contain so-called UV filters, which are divided into:

• chemical: absorbed into the skin, slightly allergenic, applied about 30 minutes before sunbathing),
• physical (mineral): they are not absorbed into the skin, they form a film on the skin, they do not allergen, they have an immediate onset of effect. Suitable for children and people with sensitive skin.

SPF factor (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the degree of protection against UVB radiation. This is a multiple of the time we delay the onset of skin redness. It is always necessary to respect the phototype (skin reaction to the sun) of the individual and the place of the sun itself.

If you have fair skin type, fair hair and eyes, you will need high or very high protection (SPF 30-50 +).

In addition to protection against possible skin burns, you also need to think about the medications you are currently taking (eg antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, ointments or gels for pain and inflammation).

It is advisable to stay in the shade between 10 am and 3 pm.

Taken from ČLnK, 2 July 2021, PharmDr. Veronika Poloniová