Sukko Spa Blog

About The Sun and Safety

The sun is necessary to both our physical and emotional well- being. It greets us in the morning, allows us to see the sapphire sky, warms our body and soul and calls us to rest in the evening. But when we try to get too much of a good thing, it can be dangerous.

Sunlight is an electromagnetic radiation –energy of many different wavelengths emitted by the sun. The radiation affects us in varying ways depending on its wavelengths, which is measured in nanometers (NM). When light penetrates to the ground level, it is made up of about 5% ultraviolet or UV rays, 40% visible light and 55% infrared radiation.

The health bonuses from the sun are provided by infrared radiation (800-17,000 NM) and visible light (400-800 NM). Infrared rays give us the warmth we need to live, while visible light is the part of spectrum that our eyes need to see, that drives our biological rhythms and lifts our mood. Photosynthesis, the process by which plants create food molecules for themselves and other creatures via the food chain, also needs visible light.

Although very small amounts of UV rays (100-400 NM) promote the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, they can also cause short and long term damage to exposed skin. UV rays are subdivided into three categories; UVC (100-290 NM), UVB (290-300NM) and UVA (320-400NM). UVB is responsible for 80-90% of sunburn, photo-aging and skin cancer. 

However, we can still enjoy the great benefits of sunshine without suffering its hidden harmful effects. We just need to take a little extra care. It is overexposure and unprotected sun exposure that should be avoided, not sunshine. So, cover up with suitable clothes and always wear trusty sunscreen, even if there is a cool breeze or a cloudy sky. Reapply the sunscreen every hour or so if you are outdoors for prolonged periods and after swimming, perspiration or exercise.

If you have been overexposed to the sun, the following may help a little until natural healing takes place:

• Apply a soothing preparation, such as aloe vera gel (that is at least 95% aloe vera) to the affected areas. 
• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids to avoid dehydration.
• For patches of sunburn, 100% pure lavender essential oil may be applied neat.
• Soak in a lukewarm bath containing 8-10 drops of 100% pure lavender or chamomile (German) essential oil. Gently apply a light moisturizing lotion afterwards.
• Stay out of the sun for a few days, until the redness and soreness have fully subsided.
• If your skin has blistered significantly or you have symptoms such as shivering, headaches or nausea- consult a doctor immediately.

Information by R&D department, Sukko Spa Co.,Ltd.