Many of us enjoy the benefits that the sun can bring and feel more positive and happier when the sun shines, which is why the vast majority of us head off on holiday in search of warmer climates.
But the harsh reality is that the ultraviolet rays given off by the sun can be extremely harmful to our bodies and can have a pivotal effect in conditions such as premature skin ageing, skin cancers and eye damage (including cataracts). They also suppress the immune system, reducing your ability to fight off these and other conditions.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is part of the electromagnetic (light) spectrum that reaches earth from the sun. It has wavelengths that are shorter than visible light which is why UV rays are invisible to the naked eye.
These wavelengths are then classified into UVA, UVB or UVC rays. UVC has the shortest wavelengths and is absorbed by the ozone layer, therefore does not reach the Earth's surface.
UVA and UVB rays do however penetrate the earth's atmosphere and have a physical effect on the skin.
These wavelengths are then classified into UVA, UVB or UVC rays. UVC has the shortest wavelengths and is absorbed by the ozone layer, therefore does not reach the Earth's surface.
UVA and UVB rays do however penetrate the earth's atmosphere and have a physical effect on the skin.
UVB irradiation is almost entirely absorbed by the skin's more superficial epidermal layers which causes reddening of the skin or sunburn and can also lead to skin cancer.