📩 12/07/2023 14:17
Specialist from Memorial Şişli Hospital Dermatology Department. Dr. Gürkan Yardimci gave information about the effects of sun rays on the skin and the selection of sunscreen creams.
Stating that exposure to sunlight from childhood can cause freckles, especially on the face, arms and trunk, in light-skinned individuals. Dr. Gürkan Yardimci says, “It can cause dark brown-blackish stains, especially in the face area, during pregnancy and in people who use hormonal drugs. Non-healing wounds on the face, scalp, lower lip, ear and back of the hand as a result of long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays can be a harbinger of a new skin cancer. People who spend most of their lives outdoors (sailors, agricultural workers, fishermen, etc.) and those with a history of frequent sunburn (especially second and third degree sunburns) are at risk. Sunburns, skin blemishes, wrinkles and skin cancers are the leading problems caused by ultraviolet A and B rays. In addition to these diseases, the sun can play an important role in the exacerbation of dermatological disorders such as acne, rosacea (rose disease), lupus disease, vitiligo. said.
“Intense sun damage can turn moles into cancer”
Indicating that individuals who are genetically predisposed to skin cancer called melanoma, moles on the skin can change and become cancerous under the influence of sun rays, Yardimci said, “Asymmetrical structures, color change, growth in size, changes in the borders and structure of moles that may develop over time should be closely monitored, if necessary, a diagnosis can be made. should be evaluated by a dermatologist.” he said.
"The way to prevent these problems that may occur with the effect of sun rays is to be protected from the sun correctly," said Uz. Dr. “Among the sun protection options, the use of hats and umbrellas, using accessories such as sunglasses, and wearing cotton and light-colored clothes that protect arms and legs are among the most preferred methods. However, it is very important to use sunscreen, which is often neglected and misused by many, especially on exposed skin areas. Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen should be used in all seasons, not just in summer. The SPF, that is, the sun protection factor of the sunscreen used, should not be below 30. warned.
“It should be applied to the face area up to half a teaspoon”
A sunscreen with at least SPF 20 should be applied to all exposed skin areas 30-30 minutes before going outside, and this process should be repeated every 2-3 hours, even if you are in closed environments. Upset. Dr. The helper said, “The amount of sunscreen required for the face area should be approximately half a teaspoon. However, it should not be forgotten to apply sunscreen to the ears, neck area and décolleté. Although most of the sunscreen creams are produced water resistant, their protection decreases after contact with water. For this reason, the skin should be washed and dried immediately after entering and exiting the sea and/or pool, and sunscreen should be reapplied immediately. said.
Upset. Dr. The assistant shared the points to consider when choosing a sunscreen, saying, “A product that is suitable for both the skin type and the area to be applied should be chosen”:
“The choice of sunscreen should be done under expert control. The dermatologist will make recommendations based on your skin type and current skin problems. Indiscriminate use of sunscreen can damage the skin. There are different products for each skin type. For the face area, people with oily skin should prefer water-based, oil-free, non-comedogenic (do not cause black and white spots) sunscreens. These products are mostly in the form of gel, gel-cream or lotion. People with dry skin and those over middle age may prefer sunscreens with moisturizing properties and antioxidant content. These products are usually in the form of creams and lotions. People with rosacea (rose disease) and extremely sensitive skin can use products with reduced chemical content and low allergy risk whenever possible. For pregnant and lactating women, sunscreens with a mineral filter, that is, without chemical filtering ingredients, should be chosen. The use of sunscreens on infants under 6 months is not recommended due to possible allergic reactions. Therefore, babies between 0-6 months should be protected from the sun with physical protective clothing. For babies older than six months, sunscreens specially produced for babies can be preferred. Sunscreens to be used for body areas other than the face can be used as lotions and sprays in larger sizes.”