PROTECT YOUR SKIN IN THE SUMMER

By Sarah Siri Blejc, MPharm

We are repeatedly exposed to sunlight throughout the day which influences our body in many different aspects. It is important to mention the effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) – UVA and UVB. UVB causes direct damage to our skin seen as sunburn. UVA penetrates the skin deeper than UVB, however, it doesn't burn it like UVB. That means that although damage is occurring, we may not be aware of it.

UV rays activate a chemical in the skin called melanin produced in pigment cells, melanocytes. They represent the skin's first defense against the sun because melanin absorbs dangerous UV rays. However, over-activated pigment cells can cause sunspots. They signal to us very clearly that they simply do not want to accept further exposure to the sun.

However, our organisms also need sunlight for many reasons. It positively influences our well-being and is vital for the production of vitamin D, which is caused by UVB radiation. However, proper care is crucial to prevent sun damage and support healthy skin function:

1.     Regular use of sunscreen and covering up with clothing and a hat.

2.     Avoiding the sun between 10 AM and 2 PM. 

3.     Maintain a varied diet, rich in vitamins and minerals that support the skin's renewal.

Even though we live in a society of abundance, we often eat food that is lacking essential micronutrients. Therefore we have to strive for a balanced diet that could be as well supported by suitable food supplements. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and minerals such as Selenium and Zinc protect our skin from oxidative stress and premature skin aging. I'd like to highlight a plant pigment beta carotene, found in yellow, orange, and red fruits and vegetables. It has the "effect" of provitamin A, which means that it is converted in our body into vitamin A. It is important for our immune system, cell growth, and skin renewal. Studies have also shown that beta-carotene may also play an important role in melanin synthesis.

Literature:

1.     J. D'Orazio et. al., UV Radiation and the Skin, Int. J. Mol. Sci., 2013.
2.     E. Postaire et. al., Evidence for antioxidant nutrients-induced pigmentation in skin: results of a clinical trial, Ciochem. Mol. Biol. Int., 1997.
3.     M. Brenner et. al., The Protective Role of Melanin Against UV Damage in Human Skin, Photochem. Photobiol., 2009.
4.     Dr. Yeal Adler, Haut nah: Alles über unser größtes Organ, 2016.