The
Sun Goddess Syndrome
By Dr. Blair
Summer is here and like a siren, the sun beckons. We all look
forward to the outdoor activities. Many have beach vacations planned
and are excited about the fun we are going to have this summer
season. However, danger lurks. There is an enemy that comes out
every morning that does not intentionally look for prey but it
exposes itself needlessly. This formidable foe is the SUN.
The rays of the sun give us life-sustaining energy. Without it
our world would be dead. Hiding in these beneficial rays is the
deadly radiation that can be detrimental to our health if we’re
not protected. Ultraviolet radiation, also known as UV rays, are
the wavelength that is the most concerning. We’re overexposed
to these potentially deadly rays, looking for that glorious golden
tan. Tanning beds are even more dangerous UV rays, making it easier
to suffer the consequences of too much UV exposure.
Why the concern? Tans are beautiful! Our culture has felt this
way for years, even though there is growing evidence that UV radiation
from tanning is bad for our skin – the largest organ of
our body.
Of all the factors for aging of the skin, sun exposure ranks
number one. The damage is done to the deep layers of the skin
by the UV rays stimulating the melanocytes to produce melanin,
which also gives us the tan. This damage causes the loss of elasticity
and support the skin layers. We also loose the ability to regenerate
new cells, which starts the aging process of the skin. Complexions
dull and areas of pigmentation begin to appear. The rate of aging
increases as does the risk of skin cancer. The best case scenario
is a scar where the skin cancer was treated. The worse case scenario
could be death.
There are three types of skin cancers, two can be easily treated
if discovered early and occasionally, one kind can be fatal. Ideally,
avoid all sun exposure including tanning beds, or when necessary
to be in the sun, wear sunscreen, protective clothing and hats,
or organize the day to avoid the most intense time of the day
for sun exposure (between 10 and 2). The number one recommendation
for any sun exposure and skin care is the daily use of a good
sunscreen. Use it frequently and liberally.
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