Sunny days are a staple of Mediterranean living but constant exposure to the sun’s rays in Malta poses many health risks, ranging from unsightly cosmetic damage to far more serious medical problems.
Prevention is always better than cure and despite the lure to boast a fashionably tanned complexion, taking a few basic precautions every day will help keep the skin healthier and looking younger.
In today’s world men are just as likely to want to look good as women, but while most people know they should apply sunscreen when venturing outside at the hottest part of the day, not everyone will be aware of all the dangers.
As well as the skin, harmful UV light can damage the eyes, hair and nails.
While sunglasses have become a must-have accessory for the beach, it is important to select a pair that provides the best protection against UVA and UVB rays as those without protection may look good but are practically useless for preventing damage to the retina or eventual cataracts.
Cosmetically, sun exposure speeds up the ageing process so sun-worshippers are more likely to develop red, broken, spiderweb veins, brown liver spots and white skin lesions, as well as freckles and dry skin.
Apart from lightening hair, particularly vulnerable hair that has been dyed or chemically treated, forgetting to wear a hat or head covering can lead to scalp damage and psoriasis, a medical condition similar to severe dandruff. The hair itself can become far more weak, dry and brittle, resulting in split ends and a dull appearance.
Overexposure to the finger and toe nails can result in hard, white ridges forming, while the sensitive cuticles are prone to burning and drying out, which could lead to fungal or bacterial infections.
Like the rest of the skin, lips can burn and develop dark brown spots called labial lentigo, so apply a sunscreen lip balm.
Developing skin cancer is the most dangerous potential effect, as almost all types usually develop in areas that are regularly exposed to sunlight: hands, arms, shoulders and even the cheeks, nose and forehead, while later in life tumours may occur in the legs.
Researchers in The Netherlands recently found that women were 30 per cent less likely to die from the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma, but were unable to say whether this was due to genetic or behavioural reasons.
Lawrence Scerri explains more about the causes and treatments of melanoma on page four, with advice on how to check your changing skin for warning signs.
• Hands: the sun can damage nails and cuticles, palms have less pigmentation so can burn easily
• Eyes: UV damage can lead to cataracts
• Face: has a higher risk of developing red veins, discoloured skin and melanoma
• Hair: can become dry and brittle
• Shoulders: freckles and lesions can develop
• Legs: skin cancer and sun spots can occur
• Feet: are susceptible to burning more quickly as they usually have less sun exposure