Hyderabad: While many Indians think only fair-skinned people from the European or North American countries need to protect themselves with sunscreen lotions, that assumption is a myth.
Dr Gufran Beig, project director, SAFAR, said, “Skin colour does not matter, everyone gets affected by UV rays. The only difference is that those with fair skin are affected sooner, but it should be remembered that everyone gets affected by the UV rays.”
He added, “It is high time that people are made aware of the dangers of UV rays and that a mechanism is put in place in other Indian cities to record UV Index regularly so that people can take precautions accordingly.”
An important factor on which UV Index value depends is how close a place is located to the Earth’s equator. Thus the UV Index is usually recorded lower in New Delhi than in Hyderabad Ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun are essential for the human body for production of Vitamin D but in small doses.
Prolonged exposure, however, can have negative impact, especially on the skin and eyes. Dr D.B.N. Murthy, well known dermatologist, says, “UV rays affect everyone regardless of the skin type. Plymorphic light eruptions, Actinic dermatitis, sunburn are some of the effects on skin due to UV rays.
“Those working indoors or those who are not used to being exposed to the Sun’s rays are also hit as their skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight.
“UV rays can even affect the eyes and can cause premature cataract. It is necessary that one wears sunglasses.”
As per WHO, UV radiation also induces degenerative changes in skin cells, fibrous tissue and blood vessels leading to premature skin ageing.
Dr Murthy has advised the use of sunscreen of at least SPF 30 — applied every three hours — for proper protection.
How you can protect yourself: Ultraviolet rays are essential but over exposure can be harmful
- Use sunscreen
- Limit time in the midday sun. UV rays are the strongest from 10 am to 4 pm.
- Use sunglasses to protect eyes
- Seek shade when UV rays are the most intense
- Tightly woven, loose fitting clothes will provide additional protection.
- Watch for the UV index
