The skin uses sunlight to manufacture vitamin D, which in turn helps the body absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But sometimes, its ultraviolet light can be very detrimental. According to MedlinePlus, an online health information platform, within the skin’s epidermal (outer) layer are cells that contain the pigment melanin. Melanin protects skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can burn the skin, and over time, could reduce its elasticity and cause a person to age prematurely. Sun tanning occurs because exposure to sunlight causes the skin to produce more melanin and to darken. The tan fades as these cells move towards the surface and are sloughed off. So, whereas outdoor activities are fun, you must protect yourself from the sun’s damaging effects. Dr Kenneth Ruzindana, a consultant at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), says that the sun is not bad for the skin as it is used to manufacture vitamin D—which is important for normal bone formation. Ruzindana also notes that too much exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause sunburn. Ultraviolet rays penetrate the outer skin layers and pass into the deep layers where they can damage or kill skin cells. Ruzindana also points out that people who burn easily should protect themselves by covering the very sensitive areas. The lighter your skin tone, the less melanin you have. This is why wearing a sunblock limits sunshine exposure. Ruzindana explains that too much sun exposure can also lead to a weaker immunity system, and damage the tissues in the eyes. “Signs of sunburn may include redness as the skin will turn red due to an increase in blood flow. It can happen right away or over time. You might not know you are burnt until you go back inside. You also can get goose-bumps or chills, pain, itchy or tight skin, blisters, dehydration, and peeling—the body’s way of shedding the dead cells,” he says. Frequent and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun over many years is the chief cause of skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to examine the skin regularly for the development of suspicious growth or changes in a clinic or hospital. This is because early detection and treatment are key in increasing the cure rate for skin cancers, Ruzindana says. According to KidsHealth, too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays doesn’t only damage the skin but also the eyes, and immune system suppression. Health experts advise individuals to stay in the shade when the sun is at its strongest (usually from 10am to 4pm in the northern hemisphere). If kids are in the sun during this time, apply and reapply sunscreen — even if they are just playing in the backyard. Most sun damage happens from exposure during day-to-day activities, not from being at the beach. KidsHealth also states that babies have thinner skin and underdeveloped melanin, so their skin burns easily. The best protection for babies under six months of age is shade, so they should be kept out of the sun whenever possible. If your baby must be in the sun, dress him or her in clothing that covers the body, including hats with wide brims to shadow the face. However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), ultraviolet rays can help treat some health conditions. Doctors might recommend it for people with eczema, psoriasis, rickets, or jaundice. UV rays also can be used to disinfect or sterilise. Doctors say that everyone is at risk of the effects of sun exposure. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what colour your skin is. Your risk increases based on the length and depth of exposure. You are at greater risk if you have fair skin or moles. Family history of skin cancer is also a factor. People who work under the sun all day are at greater risk. Farmers, construction workers, and fishermen need extra protection.
