When it comes to sun exposure, there’s a fine line between achieving that healthy glow, and causing lasting damage to your skin. Sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, but it also contains ultraviolet rays that can penetrate into the deepest layers of your skin to damage or even kill skin cells.
Wrinkles
Ultraviolet rays, according to the New York Times, are the cause of 90 percent of prematurely aging skin. Most of the effects are visible by the age of 20. These rays damage collagen fibers, the protein that provide skin structure, and elastin, the protein that maintains the “springiness” of the skin.
Sun spots
Sunspots are another possible result from exposure to ultraviolet rays. They can appear in a variety of sizes and colors, and for the most part, remain mostly harmless. With some patients, sunspots have a 10 to 15 percent chance to develop into a form of skin cancer.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a threatening type of skin cancer that typically occurs on sun-damaged skin. It usually appears as a flat spot on the skin that, if untreated, changes in size, color and shape.
Prevention is always the first step toward healthy skin. Those with fair complexions are most at risk, and are advised to avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunscreen and protective clothing are also suggested for those expecting prolonged sun exposure. Treatment for those in need can include chemical peels, dermabrasion and laser surgery.
