[Doctor's Column] Does the Sun Age Your Skin? The Truth About UV Rays and Skin Health You Never Knew

 

Sunlight, is it really only 'good for the body'?

Looking out the window on a sunny day makes me feel good for no reason. It's easy to find yourself saying things like, "I need to get some sun today," or "I need to recharge my vitamin D." Sunlight actually plays a crucial role in vitamin D synthesis, mood improvement, and circadian rhythm regulation. However, Sun exposure is certainly necessary, but the damage it leaves on your skin when it's excessive or unprotected can be deeper and longer-lasting than you might think.

 

The effects of UV rays on the skin

Ultraviolet rays from the sun are divided into three types based on their wavelengths. Fortunately, the most harmful UV-C rays are mostly blocked by the atmosphere. UVA and UVB have a direct effect on our skin. It's crazy.

① UVA

UVA rays account for 95% of UV rays reaching the Earth's surface, penetrating deep into the skin and gradually damaging the skin's elasticity-promoting components, much like a silent intruder. This is The main culprit of skin aging As time passes, it will inevitably leave traces.

② UVB

It mainly acts on the surface of the skin, and is commonly known as Causes of sunburn It makes the skin red and sting, but At the same time, it is essential for vitamin D synthesis. This is also true. The problem is when it goes beyond 'moderate'.

 

SOS signals from your skin

When we are overexposed to UV rays, our skin sends out warning signals in a variety of ways.

▲Immediate reactions

① Erythema (sunburn) : The skin becomes red, hot and stinging.

② pigmentation : The skin darkens due to increased melanin production.

③ photosensitivity reaction : Allergies occur when a reaction occurs with certain drugs or cosmetics.

▲ Damage that accumulates over a long period of time

① photoaging : Wrinkles, loss of elasticity, rough skin texture

② pigment disorders : freckles, age spots, liver spots, etc.

③ cutaneous cancer : Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma

 

The consequences of accumulated UV exposure manifest themselves in various ways after middle age. ❙ Source: Clipart Korea

 

UV-ray problems encountered at dermatologists

A significant number of patients seen in dermatology clinics suffer from UV-induced diseases. The results of accumulated UV exposure over 30-40 years appear in various forms after middle age. Here are some common skin concerns we face in our daily lives:

▲ sign It's getting darker and darker

▲ blotch It's growing and growing

▲ acne scars This remains black

▲ freckles It gets darker and longer

▲ The area around my neck looks dirty.

▲ On the face thread This is reflected

▲ Roughened dead skin cells This keeps happening

▲ The wound doesn't heal well.

▲ The point is changing

 

Scientifically Proven Ways to Block UV Rays

Rather than avoiding the sun completely The key is 'smart blocking' that controls exposure time and provides protection in parallel. no see.

① The strongest UV rays Avoid 10am-4pm

② Products with a SPF of 30 or higher that block both UVA and UVB rays How to use

③ Sunscreen A coin-sized amount for the face, or about 35ml for the entire body. To use

④ Reapply every 2 hours (right after sweating)

⑤ cloudy day Even on a clear day, we are exposed to 31-89% of UV rays. Apply sunscreen

 

Is sunlight really necessary for vitamin D?

I often hear the question, “But don’t we still need sunlight for vitamin D?” UVB is necessary for vitamin D synthesis, but very short exposure times are sufficient. According to research, at latitudes similar to Korea, Just exposing your face and arms and legs to sunlight for 4 to 15 minutes a day can help you produce vitamin D. There is no problem. However, in winter, the angle of the sun is lower, so it takes much longer. Realistically, Because prolonged exposure to sunlight is difficult in winter, it is important to supplement with vitamin D supplements or foods rich in vitamin D during this time. This is a more reasonable choice.

 

👉 A closing line from an expert

Changes in the skin caused by UV rays do not occur overnight, but the daily carelessness accumulates and will eventually show results. The most reliable way to protect your skin is not through special treatments, but through small habits today. no see.

Rather than trying to avoid the sun completely, manage it wisely within the limits your skin can handle. Please do. The difference will be clearly visible in 10 years.

 

※ This article provides general information about the relationship between UV rays and the skin. It does not recommend any specific treatment or guarantee its effectiveness, and is not a substitute for consultation with a professional.

## References

1. George, S. (2019). The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays. *MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA*.

2. Sklar et al. (2013). The effects of ultraviolet (UV), visible light, and infrared (IR) radiation on skin flushing and pigmentation. *International Journal of Photochemistry*, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 54-64.

3. Clear Dermatology (2021). Can sunburn occur even on cloudy days? A study on environmental factors affecting UV penetration.

4. Calvo et al. (2005). An empirical study on the impact of clouds on ultraviolet radiation. *International Journal of Geophysics*, Vol. 43, No. 2.

5. D.P., BL (2010). Environmental factors affecting UV exposure and vitamin D status. *Environmental Health Journal*, Vol. 118, No. 9, pp. 1235-1242.

6. Skin Cancer Foundation of America (2023). Ask the Experts: Does a Higher SPF Protect Your Skin Better? A Scientific Analysis of Sunscreen Effectiveness.

7. Cancer Prevention Australia (2021). What's the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50? A comparative analysis of UV protection effectiveness.

8. Chien, A. (2024). Sunscreen and your morning skincare routine. *Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine*.

9. Hughes et al. (2013). Sunscreen and anti-aging skin: a randomized controlled trial. *Journal of the American College of Physicians*, Vol. 158, No. 11, pp. 781-790.

10. Web et al. (2021). Revised study of ultraviolet exposure for vitamin D synthesis in human skin. *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, U.S.A.*, Vol. 118, No. 17.

11. UCLA Medical Center (2018). Ask the Doctor: How Much Sunlight Do You Need for Vitamin D? Analysis of a Latitude Study in Valencia, Spain.

12. German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (2024). Vitamin D synthesis in the body: Acute effects of ultraviolet radiation. German Federal Office for Radiation Protection.

13. American Academy of Dermatology (2024). Sunscreen FAQs: Evidence-Based Sun Protection Recommendations.

14. World Health Organization (2024). UV Index and Health Protection Guidelines. Global UV Assessment Standard.

 

Maypure Clinic Gangnam Branch Director Choi Hee-won

Graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine

· Seoul National University Hospital Resident

· Specialist in Family Medicine at Seoul National University Hospital

 

· Regular member of the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity and Aesthetics

· Classys Shrink Advisory Board Member

· Merz Aesthetics Belotero Expert Member

 

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