The answer is yes. Summer is the time when we are most likely to venture outdoors. With the outdoor adventures of summer comes direct exposure to the sun's UV rays, which can cause sunburn. Here, we look at why preventing sunburn is important, and we also discuss some dietary vitamins and compounds that can reduce the chances of getting sunburned.
Preventing Sunburn, Period
Most people have had firsthand experience with sunburn, so you probably know what it is and why it's to be avoided. Sunburn occurs when the sun's UVB rays hit the skin and superficially penetrate it, causing skin cells to die. When this occurs, the immune system reacts by increasing blood flow to these areas of the skin, leading to inflammation and redness. Besides inflammation, typical symptoms include a feeling of heat on the skin, pain and tenderness, itching, swelling, and the formation of blisters.
The manifest symptoms of a sunburn are not the only reasons to prevent it from happening. Repeated sunburn can cause damage and premature aging of the skin. This is called photoaging. This can mean the formation of deep wrinkles, dry and rough skin, the appearance of fine red veins, and discoloration. Repeated sunburn can cause other health complications as well.
Whether or not you get sunburned depends on you. Some basic ways to prevent sunburn are to avoid suspended UV exposure between 10 am and 4 pm, cover up when in direct sunlight, and to frequently apply sunscreen.
Supplements to Prevent Sunburn
Certain vitamins and compounds can help reduce the sensitivity of skin cells to UV rays. Many of these help by reducing oxidative stress, which is instrumental in fortifying the skin against UV rays. Whether you know you are especially prone to sunburn, like being fair-skinned, or you just want to be safe, these supplements are worth considering:
Astaxanthin is a unique carotenoid that has been shown in recent years to reduce the skin redness associated with sunburn (erythema) when taken in 4g orally for multiple weeks. It has also been shown to improve both the hydration and texture of skin.
Beta carotene and lutein are two other primary source of cellular energy, ATP. UV radiation can cause the depletion of ATP in skin cells, but niacinamide has been found to help restore cellular energy, as well as help with the repair of DNA within cells. This compound could reduce the overall effects of UV rays on skin.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E taken together are an excellent combination to help prevent