Earlier, we published an article on why sunlight is so important to us. But how do you use the sun wisely? We share that with you below!

Get plenty of antioxidants

The sun can lead to the formation of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable moving particles that can cause damage to cells and tissues, which can contribute to aging and various diseases. Antioxidants are substances that help neutralize these free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. They protect cells and tissues from damage caused by free radicals.

Some antioxidants can be synthesized by the body itself, while we get others through food. A healthy and balanced diet with enough antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals. Foods rich in antioxidants include fresh vegetables, herbs, fruits, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Specific antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, beta-carotene and selenium, can be especially beneficial in protecting against the effects of sunlight.

Safe tanning

Needless to say, we are advocates of safe tanning, which is why we give you the following most important general advice:

Slowly build up your skin's exposure to the sun. It is wise to regularly expose your arms and legs to sunlight as early as the beginning of spring. The sun's intensity is not as high then as it is in late spring and summer; and therefore you are much less likely to burn.

Sunscreens

Sunscreens can play an important role in protecting the skin. While they are generally considered safe and important for skin health, it is important to consider the following:

Chemical filters

Many sunscreens contain chemical filters such as oxybenzone, octinoxate and avobenzone, which are able to absorb UV rays and convert them for a less harmful effect on the skin. Concerns have been raised about the possible hormone-disrupting effects of certain chemical filters, particularly oxybenzone, which have been linked to hormonal imbalance and allergic reactions. Using sunscreens containing minerals, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, may be an alternative.

Nanoparticles

Some sunscreens use nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Although these particles are generally considered safe, there are still question marks about their possible absorption by the skin and the long-term effects of exposure to nanoparticles.

Environmental Impacts

When swimming in the ocean or lakes, the chemicals in sunscreens can enter the water and harm marine life, especially corals. Research has shown that certain chemical filters in sunscreens contribute to coral bleaching and disrupt the growth of coral reefs. Choosing sunscreens that are free of harmful substances, and that use non-nano particles, can help reduce the negative impact on the environment.

The main difference between chemical sunscreen and natural sunscreen lies in the active ingredients they use to protect the skin from the sun's compound effects.

Sunglasses

Finally, in this article, we briefly discuss the use of sunglasses. Because did you know that you burn faster with sunglasses on? "Sunglasses prevent UV light from entering the pineal gland through the optic nerves in the eyes. This prevents the brain from sending the signal to the pituitary gland to produce melanin, the pigment that colors the skin and protects it from burning," said physician and scientist Sharon Moalem.

By the way, this does not mean that we discourage the use of sunglasses (after all, sunglasses also protect against cataracts and other conditions), but again, use them wisely. For example, Dr. Krengel published an article in the Journal of Dermatology in which he explored the related theory that wearing sunglasses caused people not to seek shade in bright sunlight, even though this is very important for preventing sunburn (and its consequences).

Conclusion: make sure you eat a diet rich in antioxidants, build up sun exposure, use a natural sunscreen and enjoy the health benefits of sunlight!