Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/ask-dr.-sue-sun-safety/5011086/
Despite the wide publicity about the health risk of sun exposure, many people still seek tans and let children play in the sun without appropriate protection. The sun gives visible light that we enjoy. Unfortunately, it also gives invisible ultraviolet light types A and B that damage the skin.UVA is the tanning ray that penetrates deep down below the surface of your skin. It weakens the connective tissues and blood vessels, tans and wrinkles your skin, and suppresses your body's immune system. UVB is the burning ray that reddens the skin. These rays penetrate the clouds. Both UVA and UVB rays can be reflected from water, light-colored concrete, and snow.
Even a little tan is not good for the skin. Tanning is the skin's response to sun injury in the same way a callous is a response to excess friction. Unfortunately, when the skin is injured enough to produce a tan, it is also injured enough to increase the risk of cancer, wrinkles, and premature aging.
Sunblock reflects UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen absorbs UVB rays better than UVA rays. These products help, but protective clothing and shade are still necessary. One ...