Understand everything about UV

We often talk about UV in summer and that it is essential to protect yourself from it, but in the end who are they and why are they dangerous?

Rays from the sun

From the earth, the sun emits electromagnetic electromagnetic radiation (or waves) characterized by their wavelength*, the shorter this wavelength, the more healthy it is (1):

• Infrared rays, characterized by long wavelengths and inessuring, they are responsible for the feeling of warmth of the sun in the middle of summer. They constitute around 50% of solar radiation.

• Visible rays (more commonly called visible light), characterized by medium and moderately energy wavelengths, they are responsible for the color given to all the elements around us. They constitute 40% of solar radiation.

• Ultraviolet rays (more commonly known as UV rays), characterized by short wavelengths and very energetic, they are responsible for sunburn, tanning and harmful effects on health. They constitute between 5 to 10% of solar radiation.

*A wave (ex: WiFi wave) spreads in our environment at a defined speed, this speed is called wavelength.

The different types of UV rays

Even if UV rays constitute the lowest proportion of the rays reaching the earth, it is the most dangerous for our health. There are 3 types that are distinguished by (2): 

• Their wavele length & energy emitted

• THE percentage reaching the surface of the earth (we directly). UV rays do not all arrive 100% on the surface of the earth because the atmosphere absorbs part of it.

• There skin depth involved by rays.

• Their Health consequences short and long term.

Skin cancer: consequence of sun exposure

The most harmful consequence for the body resulting from sun exposure is skin cancer. According to the Foundation for Medical Research (FRM), Over 80% of skin cancers are linked to excessive sun exposure With each year more than 100,000 cases which declare one (3).

How to spot melanoma: melanoma is characterized by a suspicious stain on your skin or a different beauty grain from others (if you have a doubt, consult your doctor).

My day protects young and old from the harmful effects of the sun