Risks to Your Skin in Summer by MD Thordis Berger

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Exposure to too much sunlight is dangerous and can damage the skin. Some of this damage only lasts a short time (such as sunburn), and tanning the skin regularly can cause long-term skin damage and problems in the future, such as skin cancer. Read about our tips for taking care of your skin in summer and preventing skin conditions here.

There are two main types of harmful ultraviolet light: UVA and UVB.

UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and damage the middle layer of skin (also known as the dermis), where the elastic tissue that keeps the skin stretchy is located. The result? All negative effects that affect the aging process are revealed, including wrinkles.

UVB rays are absorbed by the top layer of skin (also known as the epidermis). This results in the desired tanning effect or even in less preferred burns.

Both types of rays, both UVA and UVB, can increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunburn is therefore considered a warning sign: It tells you that you are putting yourself at risk.

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Most skin cancers are non-melanoma; 75% of basal cell carcinoma skin cancers (BCC) are due to sunburn.

Mild and uncomplicated cases of sunburn can result in severe skin burns, blistering, massive fluid loss (dehydration), electrolyte imbalances and possibly even infections. If a large area of your body has massive blisters, or if you get a fever and are prone to confusion, see a doctor immediately. Do not scratch or squeeze out blisters as this can lead to infections. Signs of infection include red stripes and pus.

To reduce the risk of skin cancer, avoid or limit ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Examining your skin for noticeable changes can also identify early stages of skin cancer.

For this reason, it is important to remain alert, even if you have followed the tips for proper care and safety in the sun in an exemplary manner throughout the summer. Once a month, you should examine your skin from head to toe (don't forget about your back). Keep an eye out for new birthmarks, signs of suspicious growths, or other significant changes. Lesions that change, itch, bleed, or do not heal completely should be treated by a doctor as a result.

The first signs of skin cancer are noticeable in one or more atypical birthmarks, so it is important that you know your skin in detail so that you can immediately identify changes in birthmarks on your body.

Posted on wellness