Benefits of Sunlight
There’s nothing quite like feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin! Sunlight offers numerous health benefits, including improved bone health, better sleep and enhanced mood. Vitamin D production is boosted by sun exposure. Sunlight also boosts serotonin levels which contributes to better mood, sleep and potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. Some studies also suggest there may be an associated risk reduction with some forms of cancer, including colon, breast and prostate cancer with healthy sun exposure. (I have a multiple myeloma patient who is encouraged to get 15minutes of sun exposure as many days a week as she can for these benefits listed)
Sun Exposure and Protection
Moderation to sun exposure seems to be the problem. Factors like skin type, UV index, and geographical location can affect how quickly the sun can damage the skin. Taking steps to protect the skin is vital to avoid skin cancer, premature aging and painful sunburn. SPF is the most common way to protect the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for daily sun exposure, which provides adequate protection from both UVA and UVB rays. SPF protects against UVA rays (associated with aging) and UVB rays (associated with burning). SPF needs to be reapplied at least every 2 hours, and more often if sweating or swimming. The SPF clothing line has also been on the rise and have proven to be effective in avoiding the dangers of over exposure of the sun as well. Hats with wide brim to cover ears are also recommended as scalp and ear cancers are very common. Polarized sunglasses are also vital to ensure optimal eye health.
The Dangers of UV Radiation and Skin Cancer
UV radiation from the sun or tanning bed damages the DNA within the skin cells, when this damage accumulates or is severe, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth resulting in skin cancer. Basel cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types, often developing on sun-exposed areas and linked to cumulative lifetime sun exposure. Melanoma is a more serious but less common type of skin cancer and is also strongly associated with sun exposure, especially severe sunburns. Fair skin, family history, moles and having a weakened immune system are common risk factors for all types of skin cancer.
UV radiation is a known human carcinogen, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer. Sun exposure also damages collagen (which helps plump and hydrate the skin), elastin (which helps maintain shape and firmness) and skin surface which defends fine line and wrinkles. Sun exposure also causes an increase in melanin creating sunspots. Over exposure to UV radiation can contribute to cataracts and other eye problems. The high demand for dermatologists to diagnose and treat skin cancers coupled with a limited supply of practitioners has led to longer wait times and the utilization of physician assistants and nurse practitioners for the diagnosis and often treating many skin cancers. The dermatology industry is experiencing steady growth with revenue expected to be $9 billion this year. The aesthetic industry is experiencing significant growth and evolution with trends emphasizing minimally invasive (but expensive) treatments to help slow and or reverse the signs of aging. The anti-aging skin care market is experiencing substantial growth, with global revenues reaching $60 billion by 2030.
Early Detection of Skin Cancer
Early detection of skin cancer is crucial for successful treatment. The best time to check your skin is after a bath or shower. A new, expanding, or changing growth, spot or bump on the skin, a sore that bleeds and/or doesn’t heal, a rough scaly patch, a wart like growth or a mole that changes or appears with a non-uniform appearance should be checked out by a primary care provider or a dermatologist.