Negative effects of sunlight on general health

Exposure to Natural Light has twofold benefits, there is the good side and there is the bad side.

Exposure to the sun can contribute to various skin diseases and conditions, including:

1. Sunburn:

Skin overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, results to sunburn. It is typified by painful, red, and occasionally blistering skin.
Sunburn increases the risk of skin damage and long-term health issues, including skin cancer.

2. Skin Cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun is a major risk factor for skin cancer. This can be including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of cancerous tumors.

3. Premature Aging: Extended periods of sun exposure can hasten the aging process of the skin. This may be resulting in early wrinkling, fine lines, age spots, and elastin loss. This disorder, sometimes called photoaging. The main cause of it is UV radiation that damages the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers.

4. Actinic Keratosis: Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a precancerous skin condition caused by cumulative sun exposure. It appears as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, ears, and hands. If left untreated, actinic keratosis can progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

5. Solar Urticaria:

The symptoms of a rare condition known as solar urticaria include welts or hives. develop on the skin following sun exposure. It is caused by a UV light allergy. In the affected locations, it may also cause burning, swelling, and itching.

6. Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE):

Within hours of sun exposure, red, raised pimples or an itchy rash can appear on sun-exposed skin. Which is the hallmark of PMLE, a common skin disorder. It frequently affects people who have a history of sun sensitivity. And this is said to be an aberrant immunological reaction to UV radiation.

7. Photosensitivity Reactions:

Some medications, cosmetics, and skin care products can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. And that can be leading to photosensitivity reactions. These reactions can manifest as rashes, redness, or blistering in sun-exposed areas of the skin.

To minimize the risk of these skin diseases and conditions, it’s essential to practice sun safety measures. It entails looking for shade during the hottest parts of the day, donning sunglasses, protective clothes, and sunscreen, and staying away from indoor tanning salons. Regular skin examinations and prompt medical evaluation of any suspicious skin changes are important for early detection and treatment of skin cancer.

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