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Skin and skin types

Invisible dangers

We can’t see UV rays nor can we feel them. That makes them dangerous. Especially our skin and our eyes are highly exposed. Here are some risks you need to know.

When it comes to sun protection, it's not about preventing the positive effects of the sun and its radiation. We could assume that vitamin D, which is so important, couldn’t be produced if we do too much to protect ourselves from the sun. But this is not the case. It is important to know that even being out in the sun for short periods of time is enough for your body to produce the vitamin D it needs.

It's about keeping potential sun damage in check. It's about protecting yourself as best as possible. Possible dangers and effects on humans from excessive UV exposure include:
   

  • Sun burn (erythema)
  • Sun allergy
  • Immunosuppression
  • Premature aging of the skin
  • Leathery skin
  • Skin cancer

Also the eyes are at risk. UV rays could cause these damages:

  • Keratitis
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Retinal damage
  • Cataracts

Can UV radiation prevent pandemics in the future?

Jacob Beautemps from Breaking Lab took a closer look at the effects of different UV rays on humans. He kept an eye on the different skin types and vitamin D. (Video in German language)