With the holidays and the good weather, it's hard to resist the call of the sun. It warms us, improves our mood, and helps us to synthesize information. vitamin DHowever, its effects on the skin are not always harmless. Sun exposure, when poorly managed, can cause sunburns ou burns These risks can vary in severity and have lasting health consequences. Before enjoying the summer, it's best to understand the risks… and how to protect yourself.

Bright sunshine in a blue sky illustrating the dangers of UV rays

Why can the sun be dangerous?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by the sun are invisible, but powerful. These are the rays that damage the skin:

  • UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, accelerate skin aging and may be involved in certain cancers.
  • UVB rays, which are more energetic, are the main cause of sunburn and DNA damage to skin cells.
  • The intensity of exposure depends on many factors: altitude, reflection (sand, sea, snow), time of day, UV index…

Even on cloudy days or under a parasol, UV rays reach the skin. And the more frequent and prolonged the exposure, the greater the risks.

The different types of sunburn

Sunburn is a true burn, caused by excessive exposure to UVB rays. It can manifest as redness, a feeling of heat, pain, and even blisters in the most severe cases. In some people, these symptoms are accompanied by chills, fever, or headacheThe skin, when damaged, reacts with inflammation. In children and people with fair skin, damage can occur in just a few minutes. If the skin peels a few days later, it means that the damaged cells are being shed – a sign that the burn has reached a certain level.

Sunburn on a person's shoulder after excessive UV exposure

What are the health consequences of sunburn?

Excessive sun exposure doesn't just have immediate effects like redness or sunburn. Its impacts on health can be deeper, longer-lasting, and sometimes irreversible. The main consequences of sunburn are: :

  • Premature skin aging, with the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. Under the repeated effect of UV rays, the skin gradually loses its elasticity and radiance, even in young people.
  • UVB-induced DNA damage can impair the proper functioning of skin cells. This cellular damage accumulates over time and promotes the development of skin cancers, sometimes several years after exposure.
  • Photosensitivity, an exaggerated reaction of the skin to sunlight, can be triggered by certain medications (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, etc.), plants (such as St. John's wort or citrus fruits), or perfumes. It can manifest as redness, itching, or blisters.
  • A weakening of the cutaneous immune system, making the skin more vulnerable to infections, local autoimmune diseases or the reactivation of certain viruses (herpes, for example).
  • Heatstroke or sunstroke, linked to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, can cause headaches, nausea, intense fatigue, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness. These conditions require prompt medical attention, especially in children, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses. Read also our article “Heatwave: impacts on human health and good practices during periods of extreme heat.

Finally, melanoma, a form of cancer This particularly aggressive skin condition remains the most feared complication. It is directly linked to intense and repeated sun exposure, especially during childhood. Early detection significantly improves the prognosis, hence the importance of regularly monitoring your skin and promptly consulting a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, if you have any concerns.

How to protect yourself effectively from the sun?

Prevention remains the best weapon against sun damage. Here are the essential recommendations:

  • Avoid exposure between 12pm and 16pm, when UV rays are strongest.
  • Wear covering clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV filter.
  • Apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 to all exposed areas, and reapply every two hours (and after swimming).
  • Hydrate your skin well after exposure and drink regularly to compensate for water loss due to heat.
  • Never expose an infant to the sun, even briefly.

In Summary

Sunshine is good for the soul, but it can be harmful to the skin. Sunburns, even if they seem minor at the time, leave lasting marks. In the short term, they cause discomfort and pain; in the long term, they increase the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. During the holidays, sensible sun exposure and appropriate protection allow you to enjoy the sunny days with complete peace of mind.

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