The Harmful Effects of UV Rays and How to Combat it

The Harmful Effects of UV Rays and How to Combat it

People love summer. And if you ask around, you would probably be surprised to find more people whose favorite season is summer. Who would not love to bask in the warmth of the sun or have a good time on the beach? But as much as the majority loves this season, summer can bring danger to people.

What are UV rays?

Ultraviolet or UV light is a type of electromagnetic radiation. This light is what they use to create black-light posters. UV light is also present and responsible for summer tans. However, too much exposure to this radiation can pose a severe health condition.

Electromagnetic radiation, such as ultraviolet, comes from the sun. This radiation is transmitted in waves or particles at different frequencies or wavelengths. The broad range of these wavelengths is called the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum. The EM spectrum is divided into seven regions, and ultraviolet is just one. Other regions include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, X-rays, and gamma rays. But this blog will only tackle ultraviolet radiation.

Ultraviolet is categorized into ultraviolet A, ultraviolet B, and ultraviolet C. The three are divided according to the measure of their wavelength and absorption levels. Out of the three, only UVC is fully absorbed by the Earth’s ozone, which means they do not pose damaging effects to humans. On the other hand, UVA and UVB can affect health as they do not get absorbed by the ozone layer.

The effects of UV exposure

Anything taken in moderation will have its benefits, which apply to UV radiation. The production of vitamin D, which is essential to human health, is from the UV rays. Exposing yourself to the sun for at least 5 to 15 minutes, 2-3 times a day, can help your body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which tremendously helps in bone development.

But just like any other, too much will not do you any good. So here are some of the serious health issues that too much exposure to UV rays can do to your body.

Skin Cancer

It is no longer a surprise that prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause damaging effects on the skin, and skin cancer is just one of the most severe consequences. In the US, it is noted that skin cancer is among the most common types of cancer that kill an estimate of one American per hour. Approximately at least 9,500 people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer.

Premature aging

Premature aging or photoaging is another unavoidable skin condition you can get from long hours of exposure to UV rays. Freckling, fine wrinkling, and dilation of capillaries are just among the first signs of photoaging. In the later years, a photoaged skin may develop irregular pigmentation or liver spots on their skin.

Cataracts and other eye disorders

Cataracts are a common problem faced by an estimated 24.4 million Americans per year. And one of the leading causes of this is constant exposure to sunlight. Unlike cancer, cataracts are not per se deadly, but they can still be dangerous and be such a hassle. In order to combat this, people are encouraged to wear UV sunglasses to lessen their exposure to these harmful rays. Other eye issues such as corneal sunburn, retinal-tissue damage, and growths on the outer surface of the eyes are also suspected to be related to prolonged exposure to UV rays.

Immune system damage

While it is true that the sun can help provide your body with vitamin D, too much exposure can still be dangerous. Many healthcare professionals believe that UV radiation can cause an alteration, weaken, or suppress your immune system functions. This means that your body’s ability to fight diseases, such as skin cancer is reduced.

How to protect yourself from UV rays?

While the first response you should do is to apply sunscreen at all times, this might still not be enough. UV rays do not only exist when you are outside. These harmful rays can penetrate your vehicle, home, or office space. And window tinting Ashland KY can combat these rays from further damaging your skin and upholstery.

Window films Ashland KY are thin layered sheets primarily designed for UV protection. But aside from this, they can also provide you with extra safety, privacy, and security. This is why tinting your car, home, or office windows is truly an excellent investment.

Where to purchase window tints?

If you are wondering where to purchase quality window films, you can rely on KEPLER Window Films and Coatings.

Here at KEPLER, we offer a wide range of window tint types, sizes, colors, and designs suitable for your needs, preferences, and budget.

With a team consisting of professionals, we are dedicated to providing our clients with premium quality products and services. So if you want to know more about us and what we can offer, you can visit our website at www.kepler-dealer.com.

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