What are the effects of the sun on unprotected skin?
The sun is vital for the body and for general well-being: it encourages the synthesis of vitamin D and possesses real anti-depressive qualities. However, without protection, and especially following prolonged exposure, the skin is directly subjected to the harmful effects of solar radiation. Tanning is an adaptive and defensive reaction of the skin to UVB radiation. It offers protection from sunburn but does not prevent the skin damage caused by UVA rays. UV rays are also responsible for the premature aging of the skin, or photoaging. Photoaging: find out more. Solar radiation, in particular UVA rays, cause premature aging of the skin that is manifested by the formation of wrinkles, roughness, a loss of elasticity and pigment spots. Sunlight ultimately, with age, causes atrophy of the cutaneous structures.
