You'd be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn't appreciate a warm, sunny day. Moreover, soaking up days has actual health benefits, since sunlight boosts vitamin D, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, too much exposure to the sun---particularly without protecting yourself from its harmful UVA and UVB rays---can lead to a myriad of health (and appearance) issues. Therefore, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends always putting on sunblock with at least 15 SPF before heading outdoors.
Cancer
A tan, whether it's achieved outdoors or in a tanning bed, causes damage to the skin, thanks to harmful ultraviolet rays, says the Skin Cancer Foundation. In addition to causing premature aging, tanning leads to melanoma. UV rays damage the DNA of the skin's epidermal cells, and enzymes in the body cannot always repair the damage; consequently, damage that is not repaired increases the risk of skin cancer.
Eyes
The Skin Cancer Foundation notes prolonged, repeated exposure to the sun without protection can damage the eyes and surrounding skin, leading to vision loss and numerous eye conditions, such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Those with fair skin and light eyes are at the greatest risk. Other consequences of sun exposure may include eyelid and conjunctival cancers.
Appearance
Too much exposure to the sun's strong rays causes damage to cells and blood vessels in skin, cautions the Cleveland Clinic. Repeated exposure to the sun with no protection causes skin to look wrinkled, dry, leathery and discolored. Because such exposure weakens skin, it also can bruise more easily as a result.
Member Comments