Weather conditions and our environment definitely affect our skin. Thanks to an article by a Dermatologist in South Africa, we were able to gain insights into this question.
Damage to Ozone Layer Leads to Damage to our Skin
There is a growing hole in the good, protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, especially in the southern hemisphere. This good ozone layer helps protect us from the harmful ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. The size of this hole changes on a daily basis. The size increases when more fuel emissions and gasses called Chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) are emitted.
When this hole is overhead, high dosages of UVA radiation and visible light hit the earth’s surface and cause damage to our skin, which may lead to skin cancer. Increased visible light is also a form of radiation and has been shown to be harmful to the skin. This visible light can aggravate existing freckles and pigmentation.
Increase in Ground Level Ozone Leads to Increased Skin Damage
An additional ozone layer is caused by industrial pollution at ground level. This has been shown to cause damage to the top layer of the skin, creating 'oxidative stress' such as inflammation, breakdown in skin barrier, DNA damage and sensitivity.
Climate Change Means Increased Need for Sun Protective Products
Fortunately we have excellent sun creams and sun protective gear such as UV sensitive swimwear and clothing, including our CANSA approved sun hats, to help protect us against increased risks due to climate change. The daily application of pollution protecting products rich in anti-oxidants are also recommended especially if you live in a big city or industrial zones.
Why Wear Protective Emthunzini Sun Hats?
Most of our hats have been awarded the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) Seal of Recognition (CSOR) showing that our products offer the assurance of protection against the harmful effects of the sun. Hats that carry the UPF50+ swing ticket have been specially tested and verified as meeting the UPF50+ requirements giving you excellent sun protection.
So, no matter what time of the year - be #sunsmart. Protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun and wear your hat!
Email gilly@sunhats.co.za with any queries regarding our hats and their sun protective value and visit www.sunhats.co.za for a range of our hats.