How can you safely enjoy the sun's benefits?
We love watching it rise and we love watching it set, but in between, we cannot help but wonder: is the sun our friend or our enemy? One thing is sure: it plays a vital role in Arab culture. Most countries in the region enjoy sunshine for the most part of the year, yet many people still find ways to hide from it. But should they, really?
The fact that we’re far more exposed to ultraviolet radiation today than 20 years ago due to the thinning of the ozone layer doesn’t mean that we have to avoid the sun entirely. When exposure is reasonable, its many benefits outweigh the risks that are often associated with it. Indeed, spending time in the sun could add years to our lives. Its light can protect us from obesity, heart attacks and strokes, as well as lower our blood pressure.
As a matter of fact, a lack of sunlight is probably as bad for our health as tobacco use. Sun exposure provides us with vitamin D, which plays a protective role against cancer as well as many other diseases. A 15-minute sun exposure of your face, hands and arms, 2 to 3 times a week, without SPF, is enough to cover the vitamin D needs of a healthy adult. People who cover themselves up from head to toe could suffer from a chronic lack of vitamin D and should therefore take it in the form of supplements.
We can hear you saying: “and what about skin cancer and premature aging?” Well if you follow these simple guidelines, you should be able to enjoy the sun’s benefits safely:
Most importantly, use sunscreen for all sun exposures, even if your skin is tanned
Avoid sun exposure between 11am and 4pm (even with sunscreen)
Protect your head (use a hat and sunglasses, even when bathing)
Hydrate regularly
Don’t use cosmetic products that contain alcohol or perfume
Be careful if you’re taking medications
Don’t put any kind of oil on your skin
Take a warm shower after the exposure
Following these simple rules should allow you to soak up the sun without having to suffer its detrimental side effects.
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