Spending time outdoors is a great way to be physically active, reduce stress and get vitamin D. Now that we're in the beach/pool season, we also have to remember that we're much more exposed to the sun's rays and as a consequence, we damage our skin.
70% of skin ageing is caused by the action of UV rays, UVA and UVB. According to Portuguese Cancer LeagueIn Portugal, there are around 700 new cases of malignant melanoma every year. This is a reality that is on the increase and that the vast majority of people still don't realise the risk they are running. As the effect of the sun is not immediate, and the association between tanned skin and a healthy body still exists, protection ends up taking a back seat.
Skin care
Ultraviolet radiation has a cumulative effect, i.e. UV rays damage the DNA of some cells and can cause lesions to appear. Therefore, any sign, spot or colour that appears unexpectedly needs to be investigated.
As well as skin cancer, the worst consequence of bad exposure, signs of skin ageing can also appear (spots, wrinkles, sagging). That's why daily use of sunscreen is essential.
How food helps protect the skin
A healthy diet can also help to reduce the damage caused by skin exposure to the sun, as revealed by a study published in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The researchers found that eating foods rich in carotenoids, vitamin C and E, and polyphenols favours protection against the effects of UV rays.
These include blueberries, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals that can damage the skin. Watermelon and tomatoes are other allies for the skin, both of which have a substance called lycopene that is capable of absorbing UVA and UVB radiation and can act as a natural sunscreen.
Salmon, rich in omega-3, maintains a healthy layer of fat under the skin, preventing the sun's rays from damaging the epidermis. Carrots are another example of a food that can prevent and reverse the ageing process of the skin.
Other essential care
To help protect the skin from solar radiation, Algicel has developed the supplement Azora Astaxanthin. Its antioxidant action increases resistance to the sun and helps to protect the skin from premature ageingIt also makes the skin brighter, firmer and more moisturised.
But don't forget, sunscreen is recommended daily, 365 days a year.