So what is UV light? Knowing and understanding this is important.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of non-ionizing radiation that is emitted by the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds. While it has some benefits for people, including the creation of Vitamin D, it also can cause serious health risks.

All of the UVC and most of the UVB radiation is absorbed by the earth’s ozone layer, so nearly all of the ultraviolet radiation received on Earth is UVA. UVA and UVB radiation can both affect health. Even though UVA radiation is weaker than UVB, it penetrates deeper into the skin and is more constant throughout the year. Since UVC radiation is absorbed by the earth’s ozone layer, it does not pose as much of a risk.

• Sunburn is a sign of short-term overexposure, while premature aging and skin cancer are side effects of prolonged UV exposure.
• Some oral and topical medicines, such as antibiotics, birth control pills, and benzoyl peroxide products, as well as some cosmetics, may increase skin and eye sensitivity to UV in all skin types.
• UV exposure increases the risk of potentially blinding eye diseases, if eye protection is not used.
• Overexposure to UV radiation can lead to serious health issues, including cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. Typically, they form on the head, face, neck, hands, and arms because these body parts are the most exposed to UV radiation. Most cases of melanoma, the deadliest kind of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to UV radiation.
  Anyone can get skin cancer, but is more common in people who:
  Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned.

Have light-color skin, hair, and eyes.

Have a family member with skin cancer.
Are over age 50.

So What will we do to protect ourselves?

• To protect yourself from UV radiation:
• Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.
• Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
• Consider options to protect your children.
• Wear a wide brim hat to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher, for both UVA and UVB protection.

Live The Joy Life!