Sunlight warms the atmosphere, grows crops, helps humans produce vitamin D, provides electricity and bombards the environment with all the colors of the visible spectrum.
It also provides ultraviolet rays, an invisible form of radiation. There are three types of UV rays: Ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet C (UVC). Scientists believe that UVA radiation can cause damage to connective tissue and increase a person’s risk for developing skin cancer. UVB rays penetrate less, but can still cause some forms of skin cancer. Natural UVC rays do not pose a risk because they are absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere.
Sunlight exposure is greatest during the summer months between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Because snow and light-colored sand reflect UV light and increase the risk of sunburn, Soldiers are especially vulnerable when in the field or deployed to places like Iraq or Afghanistan. UV rays may reach exposed skin from both above and below and can cause burns even on cloudy days. Many drugs, including ibuprofen (Motrin), increase the risk of sunburn.
Years of overexposure to the sun can lead to premature wrinkling, aging of the skin, age spots and an increased risk of skin cancer.
In addition to the skin, eyes can get burned from sun exposure. Long-term exposure to the sun can lead to cataracts and has been linked to the development of macular degeneration (nearsightedness).
Sunburn does not show up immediately. Symptoms usually start about four hours after exposure, worsen in 24 to 36 hours and last for three to five days.
First aid for minor sunburn includes these steps:
• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen to relieve pain and headache and reduce fever.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Take cool baths or apply cool, wet cloths on the burned area.
• Avoid further exposure until the burn has resolved.
How to prevent sunburn:
Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 15. SPF refers to the amount of time that people will be protected from a burn. An SPF of 15 will allow a person to stay out in the sun 15 times longer than they normally could without burning. The SPF rating applies to skin reddening and protection against UVB exposure. SPF does not refer to protection against UVA. Products containing Mexoryl, Parsol 1789, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or avobenzone block UVA rays.
Sunscreen performance is affected by wind, humidity, perspiration and proper application. Old sunscreens should be thrown away because they lose their potency after one to two years. Sunscreens should be liberally applied (a minimum of 1 ounce) at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Special attention should be given to covering the ears, scalp, lips, neck, tops of feet, and backs of hands. Sunscreens should be reapplied at least every two hours and each time a person gets out of the water or perspires heavily. Some sunscreens may also lose potency when applied with insect repellents, necessitating more frequent application when the two products are used together.
Dark clothing with a tight weave is more protective than light-colored, loosely woven clothing.
How to prevent eye damage:
Wear sunglasses with almost 100 percent UV protection and with side panels to prevent excessive sun exposure to the eyes. Additional protection for eyes can be the brim of a hat to block the sun’s rays.
