Summer brings longer days, brighter skies, and more time spent outdoors. While sunshine can lift our mood, it also introduces something less visible: ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Understanding how UV interacts with your skin is key to maintaining healthy, glowing, radiant skin all year round.
What are UV rays?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of invisible energy emitted by the sun. While we can’t see or feel it in the same way as warmth, it has a powerful effect on the skin.
Only two types reach us on Earth:
- UVA rays (long-wave)
- UVB rays (short-wave)
UVA vs UVB: What's the difference?
UVA and UVB rays target different depths of the skin.
UVA Rays: The "ageing" rays
UVA rays have a longer wavelength, allowing them to penetrate deep into the dermis, the layer where collagen and elastin live. They are associated with:
- Premature ageing
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of firmness and elasticity
- Oxidative stress caused by free radicals
Research shows UVA generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which contribute to collagen breakdown and photoageing. Importantly, UVA rays are present all year round, and can even penetrate through glass and cloud cover. [1]
UVB: The "burning" rays
UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and mainly affect the outer layers of the skin, particularly the epidermis. They are responsible for:
- Sunburn
- Redness and inflammation
- Increased risk of skin cancer
Unlike UVA, UVB intensity changes depending on season, time of day, and altitude. [2]
What happens when UV rays touch your skin?
UV exposure doesn’t just affect the surface. It triggers a chain reaction throughout multiple skin layers.
1. Surface-level inflammation
When UVB rays hit the epidermis, skin cells absorb the radiation and become damaged. This activates an inflammatory response, causing:
- Redness
- Heat
- Swelling
- Sunburn
This is your body signalling cellular stress and attempting repair. [3]
2. Free radical formation
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the dermis where they generate unstable molecules called free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS). [4] These molecules:
- Damage collagen and elastin fibres
- Weaken the skin’s structure
- Accelerate visible signs of ageing
Over time, repeated exposure contributes to what’s known as photoageing - ageing caused specifically by sun exposure.
3. DNA damage
Both UVA and UVB rays can damage DNA inside skin cells. UVB is particularly associated with direct DNA mutations, while UVA contributes through oxidative stress pathways.[5]
When this damage accumulates faster than the skin can repair itself, it can lead to:
- Pigmentation changes
- Loss of elasticity
- Uneven skin tone
Keeping skin safe and nourished
Even on cloudier days, it's important to protect the skin. Cloud cover may reduce brightness and heat, but it does not fully block UV radiation. Research suggests that up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover. [6]
Many sunscreens contain ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and oxybenzone. While these work effectively to protect the skin, some formulations may not suit everyone - particularly those with sensitive skin. If you’re looking for a gentler alternative, mineral-based sunscreens can be a great option. They are often well tolerated by sensitive skin and are also considered a more ocean-friendly choice, as they avoid certain chemicals that may wash into marine environments.
It's important to keep skin nourished and protected with antioxidant-rich skincare all year round. The seaweed's used in ishga products are found to be high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to lock in moisture and protect, perfect for using as an after-sun treatment on dehydrated skin. Our Body Oils and Body Lotion are perfect for applying in the evening after a day in the sun, allowing your skin to 'drink up' all the hydration to keep it supple and nourished.
