The doctor warned about a decrease in immunity and an increased risk of cancer due to sunburn

Sunburn can reduce immunity and provoke the development of cancer in people with fair skin. Tatiana Ballirano, a dermatologist and cosmetologist, told Izvestia about this on May 28.

She noted that sunburn occurs due to the production of melanin, which is how the body's protective reaction to solar ultraviolet radiation is manifested. However, in light-skinned people, melanin is produced only in small amounts, which also affects the protective function.

"The immune system of the whole body is falling and the protective properties of the upper layer of the skin are falling. And therefore, there is the appearance of some neoplasms, they can be both benign and malignant," explained Ballirano.

She stressed that people with fair skin should avoid exposure to the sun during its peak activity. In order to assess the risks, the specialist advised paying attention to the level of the ultraviolet index in mobile applications with weather forecasts.

"As a rule, if it is an active sun, then this period is either from 12 to 14 o'clock, or from 10 to 16 o'clock. At this time, especially people with fair skin type should not go out in direct sunlight. If there is still no way to hide, a headdress and light clothing are required," the dermatologist clarified.

Balliarno added that darker-skinned people also need to protect their skin from UV radiation. She recommended using sunscreens with an SPF level of 35 to 50 and physical components in the composition.

According to the expert, sunbathing is useful, but in moderation: when exposed to sunlight, vitamin D is produced in the body.

"It's our immune system, it's our skin, it regulates the hormonal background, so a little dosed sun, especially for us, the people of the middle lane, is very useful. <...> People with white skin should understand that they cannot be exposed to direct sunlight for a long time, but small doses of ultraviolet radiation are necessary and even useful for vitamin production," she concluded.

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On May 4, Elena Fedorova, a nutritionist, nutritionist, pediatrician, and SOLGAR expert, said that sunbathing should be done daily, spending time outside after the onset of spring. The safest time to stay in the sun is before 11:00 and after 16:00, when the ultraviolet (UV) index is at a minimum level. At the same time, the expert noted that the sun's rays can harm, especially the eyes.