We have often heard and read about UV protection, but have you ever wondered what do UV-A, UV-B and UV-C rays do and how do they bring upon premature ageing and sometimes also causing cancer?
Benjamin Button: He’s not even 21 yet
UV-A Rays
About UV-A Rays
- Basically the rays that cannot be seen
- Able to pass through window glasses and light clothing
- Always present, day and night, throughout the seasons
- Penetrates beyond the first layer of skin
Effects
- Cracks and shrinks the collagen and elastin thus causing the skin to start drooping
- Blood vessels permanently dilated thus causing red/brown spots
- UV-A causes cellular DNA damage due to free-radicals, thus causing cancer
How to prevent
- Apply sunscreen with PA+++ even when you are indoors
- Supplement your diet with antioxidants to combat free radicals
UV-B Rays
About UV-B Rays
- Basically the rays that can be “seen”
- Unable to pass through window glasses
- Causes sunburns and tanning effect
- Varies with the season and weather. The hotter it is, the more UV-B rays
Effects
- Helps the body produce vitamin D
- Causes cataracts. That is why people who are staying around the equator and at higher altitudes tend to have it
- Causes tough, leathery skin and a coarse texture
How to prevent
- Apply sunscreen
- Avoid overexposure to the sun
- Get a pair of shades with UV protection
- Moisturise yourself frequently
UV-C Rays
About UV-C Rays
- Usually does not reach the earth surface due to protection from the ozone layer
Effects
- Antiseptic effect that kills bacteria and viruses. Used to disinfect air and water
- Because of its ability to kill organism, brief exposure to it will cause sunburn, while prolong exposure may be fatal
How to prevent
- Support the go green movement to rescue our ozone layer
- Avoid space travel or a career as an astronaut, just in case.
Now you know about UV, it’s time to find out more about SPF and PA+++!
