We all know the bright yellow orb in the sky. Many people (and animals or pets) find it magnificent. They want to lie in it all the time. On holidays in Greece or Spain, many people soak in the sun all day long, enjoying a good book and a nice cocktail. They pay for the sunbeds, the drinks, the lovely food, and for the amazing experience. But another bill is paid later, for those who are not careful.

What is UV radiation?

The sun, tanning beds, UV lamps. They produce Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. We mostly know it from the sun. It's what colors our skin if we stay in the sun; it can give us a tan or burn us.

UVA and UVB - what's the difference?

The sun is a powerful thing. It radiates UV (UVB and UVA), which affect our skin and even our DNA. In a nutshell: UVB causes burning of the skin, the red and painful experience we've probably all had to go through at some point in our lives. UVA goes deeper into the skin, and is responsible for aging your skin. Both types increase the risk of skin cancer. And here's something not everyone knows: UVA goes through clouds and glass. So even when on cloudy days or when you're working at the office next to a window, it reaches you just the same.

The bill you don't see coming

The bill that comes later is the one of UV damage. It is invisible and builds up every time you go out into the sun or enjoy a tanning salon session. You don't feel it happening, and you don't really see it happening. It's silent. Until years later. And when it shows up, it shows up in different forms. Aged skin, sunspots, cancer.

But the sun isn't the enemy

UV radiation can of course give us a lovely tan. (Well, for most people. I just get red like a lobster) And the sun has health benefits too. It enables your body to produce vitamin D, it uplifts our spirits, and makes us happy. And besides, we don't want to be a vampire, locked inside the house. Lurking in the night. So how do we enjoy it?

So what can you do?

Luckily there are many smart people in the world who have invented products that protect us from the sun or help us be more mindful. Think of sunscreen, UPF clothing, sunglasses, UV index apps. But it's also a matter of lifestyle and habits. And that's what this website is about. How to love the sun, responsibly.

Sources

The claims in this article are based on information from the following sources.

Note: This article is based on personal experience and general research, not medical expertise. It does not constitute medical advice. See the full disclaimer.