Our Skin Diseases Specialist Doctor Lecturer Özlem AKIN stated that skin cancer is one of the most important problems caused by the harmful effects of the sun and said, "Innocent-looking sunburns are very important. They can cause permanent damage, far beyond complaints such as pain and redness."

What are the Benefits and Harms of the Sun?

In order to benefit from the beneficial effects of the sun, it is necessary to sunbathe in accordance with the rules. However, sunbathing or exposure to the sun without taking the necessary precautions can cause different problems. It is possible to list these as skin cancers, sunburns, premature skin aging, immune system weakness, skin blemishes and some eye problems. 

What kind of skin problems does prolonged exposure to the sun cause?

One of the most important problems is skin cancer. Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma occur as a result of sunlight damaging the DNA of skin cells. Melanoma is one of the most dangerous cancers that results in loss of life. 

The second effect is sunburn. Innocent-looking sunburns are very important. It can cause permanent damage far beyond complaints such as pain and redness. The most important risk groups for burns are those who expose their skin to UV light from sunlight or artificial sources such as solariums without using sunscreen.

In terms of sunburn, people with fair skin, blue eyes, and red or blonde hair are at greater risk. However, for burns: working outdoors that increases exposure to sunlight, living or vacationing in hot or high-altitude areas with intense sunlight, going out in the sun by drinking alcohol, continuously wetting the skin under the sun without protection or swimming also increases the risk of burns.
Another effect of sun exposure on the skin is skin blemishes and discoloration. Sun rays increase melanin production in the skin, which can cause sunspots, freckles and uneven skin tone. 

What are the Ways to Protect from the Sun?

Do not go out in the sun at risky hours 

Care should be taken to avoid going out in the sun between 10:00 and 16:00, when UV rays are strongest. It should be protected throughout the year, not only in summer and on sunny days, but also in cloudy weather. In addition, protection should be used not only under the sun, but also when going outside, even in the shade. 

Wear a hat and sunglasses 

Clothing to protect from the sun's UV rays is also important. If you are going to go out in the sun, choose long-sleeved shirts, beach clothes, long trousers and skirts made of tightly textured fabrics. Color preferences in clothes should also be light colors. A hat should be one of the must-use accessories. To provide protection, the hat to be chosen should shade the face, ears and back of the neck. Dark colored and straw hats should not be preferred. 
UV protected sunglasses are one of the indispensable accessories in summer. Glasses that completely cover the eyes will protect the eyes against the effects of the sun.

Use protector with high protection factor

A water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30 should be applied to all areas outside clothing at least half an hour before extended outdoor activities. Application should be repeated every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. It is important to apply sunscreen with the right factor in a thick layer on all exposed skin. Since sunscreen wears off, it should be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure. It should also be repeated after 2 hours of exposure to the sun.

Which Sunscreen should be used for which Skin Type ?

For daily use, products with at least SPF 30 should be preferred. If you will stay under intense sun for a long time, it would be more appropriate to use products with SPF 50 or above. In addition, broad spectrum products that provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays should be chosen. It is important that the products to be used especially during swimming or intense physical activities are resistant to water and sweat. Those who have skin problems such as acne should choose special products. They can get information about this from their doctor. 

Care should be taken to ensure that the preferred products are certified and approved by the ministry. Make sure that the products are original and should be purchased from reliable places. 
As for content: 
Oily Skin: Light, oil-free formulas should be preferred. It is generally appropriate to use water-based products.
Dry Skin: Moisturizing, dense creams are more suitable. Products containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides may be preferred.
Combination Skin: Products that balance both oily and dry areas should be chosen. Generally, mild moisturizers may be appropriate.
Sensitive Skin: Perfume-free, hypoallergenic and alcohol-free products should be preferred. Physical (mineral) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be appropriate.

How to Spot Fake Sunscreen?

First of all, counterfeit protective cosmetic products do not provide adequate UV protection, which can lead to exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburns, premature skin aging and skin cancer. Additionally, fake products can cause uneven pigmentation and discoloration of the skin. 
Counterfeit products whose exact contents are unknown may contain toxic substances absorbed by the skin, including harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury and arsenic.  It should not be forgotten that such chemicals can cause serious health problems in the long term. Since the preparation stage of the product is unknown, these products produced under inappropriate conditions may cause skin infections. 
In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to water consumption, which is also important for general health during periods when sun exposure is high. 

Drink plenty of water

Water consumption is even more important to prevent dehydration, which may occur especially after sunburns. Water will help maintain skin moisture. It will also be beneficial to take a bath with water that is as cold as possible during the day. 

Choose loose-fitting clothes

Another important issue to protect the skin in summer is clothing preferences. To allow the skin to breathe while it heals, be sure to choose loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton and avoid wearing clothing that sticks to the body.

Use moisturizer

It is important to keep the skin moist, especially in case of burns. The skin needs good care during the burn treatment and self-repair process. In this process, the first thing to do to prevent skin peeling is to use moisturizer regularly. Use sensitive skin moisturizers regularly to prevent irritation in affected areas. Using appropriate moisturizers throughout the summer will also be beneficial to protect the skin.