The Skin's Sun Story: Risks and Precautions

Background: The skin, representing the largest organ in the human body, serves numerous funtions crucial for homeostasis, as well as acts as the primary physical barrier protecting the organism from external environmental factors such as microorganisms, mechanical damage, heat or cold exposure, toxins, as well as solar radiation, posing various risks to the skin, including sunburn, photoageing and skin malignancies. Objectives: This study aims to explore the effects of solar radiation on the skin and to discuss preventive measures against its negative influence on the skin. Methods: An exhaustive search of references related to sun exposure and skin published in PubMed was undertaken, using the search terms: "solar exposure and skin, ultraviolet radiation and skin, visible light and skin, sunscreen, photoprotection”. Conclusions: Solar radiation, particularly ultraviolet radiation (UVR), induces acute and chronic damage to the skin, leading to conditions such as sunburn, photoaging, and skin malignancies. However, adequate exposure to sunlight is crucial for the synthesis of vitamin D3, which plays essential roles in calcium homeostasis, immune function, and potentially other physiological processes. Strategies such as proper sunscreen use and other photoprotection methods can mitigate the adverse effects of solar radiation while allowing for sufficient vitamin D synthesis.