Ultraviolet rays stimulate the production of vitamin D, a necessary element for bone calcification. They also accelerate the production of melanin, giving the skin its tanned complexion. However, it is important to keep in mind that this practice can have more or less significant repercussions on the skin.
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Tanning: What are the implications for the skin?
Summary
- What is tanning?
- UVA rays, responsible for photo-aging
- UV rays, the primary risk factor in skin cancer
- Use a sunscreen suitable for your skin type to avoid the harmful effects of UV rays
Published February 25, 2022,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
5 min read
What is tanning?
Tanning is a natural process that allows the skin to resist the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. Biologically, during exposure, melanocytes produce melanin (the pigment responsible for the brown color) which migrates to the surface of the epidermis and colors it. If the exposure is too long and/or the UVB rays are too intense, tanning gives way to a sunburn. There are also other repercussions on the skin, which are discussed below.
UVA rays, responsible for photo-aging.
The UV rays from the sun are classified into three categories based on their wavelengths: UVA (400-315 nm), UVB (315-280 nm), and UVC (280-100 nm). UVC rays are the most harmful, but fortunately, they are filtered by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth's surface. However, UVA and UVB do come into contact with the epidermis.
UVA rays penetrate deeper than UVB rays, reaching the dermis, the deep layer of the skin. They are thus the cause of "photo-aging". This is directly related to a phenomenon called "oxidative stress". UVA rays generate an excess formation of free radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species. These compounds are particularly unstable due to their single electron and tend to react with other molecules to form an electron pair, causing damage to cells, DNA, and proteins in the body. Aging is accelerated and wrinkles appear on the skin's surface, and sometimes, pigmentation spots.
UV rays, the primary risk factor in skin cancer.
Long-term and excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, whether natural or artificial, is one of the main causes of skin cancer. The risks are tenfold for individuals with fair skin and those with a family history.
Melanoma is an invasive form of skin cancer. It develops either on a mole or on healthy skin. Early detection improves the chances of recovery. If suspicious spots appear, consult a dermatologist without delay.
Use a sunscreen suitable for your skin type to avoid the harmful effects of UV rays.
For a sun-kissed complexion without sunburn and to avoid the risks associated with skin cancer, it is important to choose your sun protection wisely. This choice depends on each individual's phototype. According to the FITZPATRICK classification, skin types are categorized into 6 phototypes defined by hair color, skin tone, frequency of sunburn, and type of tanning:
Phototypes I and II: SPF 50 :
Individuals with red hair, freckles, and a pale complexion (phototype I), as well as those with blonde hair and fair skin (phototype II), should opt for a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50.
Phototypes III and IV: SPF 30 to 50 :
Individuals with light brown skin (phototype III) or brown/light brown skin with a slightly tanned complexion (phototype IV) should opt for a sun protection factor of 30 or even 50.
Phototypes V and VI: SPF 15 to 30 :
For mixed-race skin of phototype V or black skin of phototype VI, a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 to 30 is sufficient for protection. To avoid skin damage, it is important not to expose yourself to sunlight, particularly between 12 and 4 pm. If you cannot avoid it, protect your skin effectively with a sunscreen. To choose the appropriate care, base your decision on your phototype.
Ourface sunscreenfeatures an SPF30. This protective care is enriched withaloe vera, karanja oil and hyaluronic acid derived from fermented wheat. The clever blend of these three components prevents photoaging while maintaining skin hydration. Bonus : Its light texture leaves a finish without white traces, non-sticky and non-shiny. Regular application is recommended in case of prolonged exposure (while hiking, at the seaside, etc...), approximately every 2 hours.
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