Have you ever wondered what the effect is of UV rays on your skin? When we are sunbathing on a sunny day of summer, we just feel a very warm sensation on our skin, but let’s go into the sun rays and check how they can penetrate into our skin.
Same, but different
The sun rays that make us tan are of two types: UVA and UVB, but the UV radiation can also come from artificial sources, such as tanning beds.
UVA and UVB are both part of the Ultraviolet range of the light spectrum and are harmful for your skin. But, they have different characteristics. Let’s dig deeper into the difference between UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays: skin ageing
UVA rays have a higher wavelength but lower energy levels than UVB rays and for this reason they penetrate deeper into the skin layers affecting the cells in the dermis.
What does it mean to “affect the cells”?
As UVA rays penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin (dermis) they accelerate the skin ageing process. Not surprising when you know that the dermis contains collagen fibres that keep the skin firm. In addition, UVA rays penetrating into your skin can result in the formation of free radicals which can lead to skin cancer.
Do you want to prevent your skin from ageing? Then start wearing sunscreen now, before it's too late.
UVB rays: sunburn
First of all, UVB is responsible for the production of vitamin D which makes you feel happy. Isn't that nice?😊
Furthermore, UVB rays help your skin tan (the tan that sticks for a while) because it activates the melanin production. Remember: the melanin production is a natural defense mechanism that protects your skin cells.
Unfortunately, because of the melanin your skin is also more prone to sunspots. That's one reason why you should wear sunscreen.
In contrast to UVA rays UVB rays have a high energy causing the upper skin layer (epidermis) to turn red due to sunburn. Also, due to its higher energy, UVB rays can directly penetrate your DNA and cause mutations that lead to skin cancer.
Skintip met Dr. Barbara Geussens👀
Love your skin & protect yourself
Not convinced you have to wear sunscreen everyday? Maybe these facts can change your mind:
A single blistering sunburn can nearly double one’s lifetime risk of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer.
Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays are not absorbed by the ozone layer and they are not filtered by windows or clouds. This means you are ALWAYS exposed to harmful UV rays.
Protect your skin every day with the Nomige High Protection Sunscreen SPF30+, suitable for all skintypes.
Volg de hashtag #Nomige en blijf zo op de hoogte over de laatste skin tips en nieuws.
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