The sun, a life-giving star, is essential for our planet’s ecosystems and even plays a role in human health, notably in Vitamin D synthesis. However, its powerful ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses a significant, often underestimated, threat to our skin. While a sun-kissed glow might be aesthetically pleasing in the short term, prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to severe health consequences, most notably skin cancer, and accelerate the visible signs of ageing.

In this article, let’s understand why sun protection is not merely a cosmetic choice but a fundamental aspect of comprehensive health and aesthetic preservation.

Understanding UV Radiation: The Invisible Threat

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. There are three main types:

• UVA rays: These penetrate deeply into the skin, contributing significantly to premature ageing, wrinkles, and the suppression of the immune system. They also play a role in skin cancer development.
• UVB rays: Primarily responsible for sunburn, UVB rays damage the outermost layer of the skin and are a major cause of most skin cancers.
• UVC rays: These are largely absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer and generally do not reach the Earth’s surface, posing less of a direct threat to human skin.

Both UVA and UVB rays are harmful and can damage skin cells, leading to changes in DNA that increase the risk of cancer and contribute to visible skin damage.

Skin Cancer: The Grave Reality

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer worldwide including in Malaysia, and its incidence continues to rise. The vast majority of cases are directly linked to overexposure to UV radiation. There are three primary types:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), the most frequent form of skin cancer, tend to grow slowly and seldom spread to other parts of the body. However, if not treated, they can lead to serious damage to the surrounding tissue. They typically show up as a shiny or wax-like bump, especially in areas exposed to the sun.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): The second most common, SCCs can grow more quickly and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. They often look like firm, red nodules or flat, scaly patches.
• Melanoma: Though less common, melanoma is the most serious and aggressive form of skin cancer. It can develop from existing moles or appear as new dark spots. Melanoma has a high potential to spread quickly to other organs if not detected and treated in its early stages, making prevention and early detection critical.

Consistent sun protection dramatically reduces the risk of developing all types of skin cancer. Each sunburn, especially during childhood, increases an individual’s lifetime risk.

Aesthetic Preservation: Beyond Health

Beyond the critical health imperative, sun protection is the single most effective strategy for maintaining youthful and healthy-looking skin. The sun’s UV rays are the primary external factor responsible for photo-ageing, a process of premature skin ageing. This differs from chronological ageing, as photo-ageing leads to distinct visible changes:

• Wrinkles and Fine Lines: UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. This leads to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth.
• Sunspots (Age Spots/Liver Spots): These are hyperpigmented patches on the skin, often appearing on the face, hands, and décolletage. They are a direct result of melanin overproduction in response to UV damage.
• Uneven Skin Tone and Texture: Chronic sun exposure can lead to mottled pigmentation, redness, and a rough, leathery texture.
• Broken Capillaries: UV rays can damage blood vessel walls, leading to visible red veins, especially on the nose and cheeks.

By diligently protecting your skin from the sun, you can significantly slow down these visible signs of ageing, preserving a smoother, more even-toned, and youthful complexion for much longer.

Effective Sun Protection Strategies

Implementing effective sun protection doesn’t mean avoiding the sun entirely, but rather engaging with it safely and intelligently:

• Sunscreen: Sunscreen is your primary defence against the sun and should be worn every day. Choose sun protection products like broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30 for daily use, and SPF 50 for extended outdoor exposure. Apply generously at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more frequently after swimming or sweating. A very common question asked in this regard is does sunscreen prevent skin cancer? Well, while prevention may not always be possible, sunscreens can lessen the chances of developing skin cancer.
• Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved tops, trousers, and wide-brimmed hats. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for assured protection. Sunglasses with UV400 or 100% UV protection are also crucial to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak UV hours, typically between 11 AM and 3 PM, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Awareness: Check the daily UV index, which indicates the strength of UV radiation. On days with a high UV index, take extra precautions.

Debunking Common Myths

Several common myths often hinder effective sun protection. Firstly, the belief that one “can’t get burned on a cloudy day” is false, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. Secondly, the idea that “tanning is healthy” is misleading; a tan is an indicator of skin damage, and there is no such thing as a “healthy” tan achieved through UV exposure. Finally, the notion of only needing “sunscreen on holiday” is incorrect, as UV exposure is cumulative, and even daily, incidental exposure adds up, with significant UV levels present.

Sources:

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/causes/
• https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537164/
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ultraviolet-radiation
• https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/resources-and-environmental-changes-to-prevent-skin-cancer-final-scope2
• https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/photoaging/