Visible light is the result of the movement of electromagnetic waves that travel through a vacuum, which can cause skin problems.
Do you know what visible light is? Although it plays an important role in our health, there is no denying that, in excess, it can be very harmful to the skin and eyes. But, before we get into this subject, let’s understand better what this subject is about.
In principle, all light comes from electromagnetic waves that move through a vacuum at impressive speeds. However, what makes it visible is all the radiation coming from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It is thanks to solar lighting, reflecting on an object, that the eyes can see things in the world.
Another interesting factor in relation to visible light is that all radiation is made in waves, and each wave has a length and frequency. Combining these two important points, we have visual sensations that give us the power to not only see, but also identify which colors are present in the reflected objects.
Visible light on the skin
When the skin is exposed to visible light, that is, the sun; it reacts by producing more melanin. This substance is, therefore, responsible for giving pigmentation to the skin. When it’s right, sunbathing can be beneficial, even activating the body’s vitamin D.
When light penetrates the skin, it generates a chain reaction in the production of vitamin D. This substance allows for better absorption of calcium. And, if we are talking about “absorption”, the functionality occurs, above all, in the intestine, because this is the organ responsible for absorbing and distributing the vitamin in the body.
An interesting fact is that UV rays prevent depression. The energy produced and penetrated into the skin cheers us up and makes us more energetic throughout the day. It’s no wonder that sunbathing makes us ready to face a day with more energy.
Harmful effects of the sun on the skin
We have, in principle, several skin types and each one has a time limit for sun exposure. In the case of white skin, it is recommended not to sunbathe for more than 20 minutes. That’s if you don’t have sunscreen on.
The other case is black skin. As it has a greater presence of melanin, it can withstand exposure of up to 1 hour of sunlight without protection. However, the right thing to do is not to push your luck and protect yourself with a sunscreen.
Now that you know your exposure time limit, be aware of the consequences that the sun can cause if you don’t follow the previous instructions. The rules must be followed exactly, because excessive visible light can cause serious skin problems. See the following list:
Burns
Visible light, emanated by ultraviolet rays, when too much absorbed by the skin’s melanin, causes complications, such as sunburn. These can reach up to 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree.
1st degree
In principle, a first-degree burn is the one we get when we go a little too far in the sun. Normally, the burning and redness caused improve within a maximum of 6 days. The skin becomes dry and peeling may occur.
2nd degree
The second degree can reach two levels: superficial and deep. On the surface, blisters may appear, because they reach beyond the first layer of the skin. However, if it reaches the deep layers, visible light can even harm the body’s nerve endings.
3rd degree
This affects the nervous system, destroys the glands, follicles and can even reach the body’s bone structure. Recovery requires strict medical monitoring and, of course, hospitalization.
Spots on the skin
Another consequence of excessive exposure to visible light is the appearance of spots. Called solar melanosis or age spots, they appear because they function as a defense mechanism for the skin against light.
There are several shades for these stains, ranging from lighter to darker. When they reach a whitish color, it is a signal to see a doctor, because it indicates that there has been a lot of sunlight on the skin, and this can lead to more serious illnesses.
Skin cancer
For those of you who like to sunbathe for long periods of time, be careful. Because constant, long-term absorption can cause skin cancer. One of the first signs is the formation of white, reddish or even pink nodules on the skin.
The evolution of these nodules can lead to the formation of wounds that, normally, do not heal. If you notice something similar to this description, immediately seek out a dermatologist to evaluate the case.
Aging
Initially, exposing yourself too much to light also causes accelerated skin aging. UV rays go directly to our DNA cells and cause irreversible damage. Visible light, in this case, is so strong that it ends up breaking down the fibers and collagen in the skin. This brings an aspect of premature old age.
Visible light and solar acne
Finally, the last negative consequence of exposure to sunlight is the appearance of red dots on the body. The greatest focus of damage is in the face and neck region. They appear due to the combination of the sun and skin oil, together with sunscreen residue.
How to protect yourself?
The first step to protecting yourself against visible light, after all, is to stay in the shade. Prefer to stay away from direct exposure, other than the limit allowed to help your health. And, above all, never leave the house without using sunscreen.
Sunscreen formulas suitable for all skin types have already been discovered. Therefore, be sure to use it and protect yourself against all types of possible diseases arising from exposure to visible light.
Finally, another form of protection, discovered more recently; These are pigmented sunscreens. They basically work as if they were a layer of protection for the skin. Their compositions can be mineral, or contain iron and even zinc oxides.
Finally, read more about Natural Tanning – 5 tricks for golden, healthy skin
Sources: Minha Vida, Viva Bem, Notredame Intermédica, O Popular, ADCOS
Image sources: Super Interessante, Thiago Lucas, Health Bank, Metrópole, Folha Vitória, Inter Fisio, Innove Clinic, Vix, Moon in Scorpio, Women’s Tips
