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Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is part of the natural spectrum of radiation
sunlight. The sun emits three types of UV radiation - UV-A, UV-B and UV-C.
UV-C radiation is the most harmful to human health, but it remains
retained by the ozone layer. UV-A and UV-B, which reach the Earth, can affect the
on our health, including our eyes and skin.
Effects of UV radiation on the eyes
Exposure to UV radiation over a long period of time can lead to damage to the eyes.
UV-A and UV-B can cause changes in the structure and function of the eye. Long-term exposure
to UV radiation can lead to damage to the cornea, lens and retina.
These changes usually develop gradually and are invisible for many years, but later they can
lead to loss of sight.
The most common side effect of prolonged exposure to UV radiation is
cataract. Cataracts are a disease in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and interferes with vision.
In extreme cases, overexposure to UV radiation can lead to
even to skin cancer around the eyes.
How can the effects of UV radiation on the eyes be minimised?
The best way to minimise the effects of UV radiation on the eyes is to
avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during hours when UV radiation is
the most intense, i.e. between 10 am and 4 pm. It is also worth remembering that
UV radiation can be dangerous even on a cloudy day.
The best way to protect your eyes from UV radiation is to wear glasses
sunscreens with UV filters to protect the eyes and the skin around them. When choosing
sunglasses, care should be taken to ensure that they have the correct
indications. It is best to choose glasses that have a UV400 filter, which means that they block the
they 99-100% of UV radiation.
Effects of UV radiation on the skin
UV radiation can also affect our skin. Prolonged exposure to
UV radiation can lead to permanent damage to the skin, including premature
skin ageing and skin cancer.
UV-B is the main factor responsible for sunburn, which can
lead to DNA damage in skin cells. Long-term exposure to
UV-B radiation can lead to premature skin ageing, such as
wrinkles, dryness, loss of elasticity and change in skin colour. In addition, excessive
exposure to UV-B radiation increases the risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma -
the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
How can the effects of UV radiation on the skin be minimised?
To minimise the effects of UV radiation on the skin, it is recommended to avoid prolonged
exposure to the sun at times when UV radiation is most intense, i.e.
between 10 am and 4 pm. Solariums should also be avoided as the devices
These emit large amounts of UV radiation.
To protect the skin from UV radiation, it is recommended to use creams with UV filters.
These creams contain ingredients that block UV radiation from entering the
skins.
Summary
UV radiation can have a negative impact on our health, including our eyes and skin.
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to serious problems,
such as cataracts, premature skin ageing and skin cancer. In order to minimise the impact of
UV radiation on our health, it is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
during hours when UV radiation is most intense, wear glasses
sunscreens with UV filters, the use of UV filter creams and avoiding tanning beds.
Adequate UV protection can help maintain a healthy
eyes and skin in the long term.
