Increased UVB Exposure Associated with Reduced Risk of Nearsightedness, Particularly In Teens, Young Adults

JAMA: Higher ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation exposure, directly related to time outdoors and sunlight exposure, was associated with reduced odds of myopia (nearsightedness), and exposure to UVB between ages 14 and 29 years was associated with the highest reduction in odds of adult myopia, according to a study published online by JAMA Ophthalmology.

The best time for marathon runners to get on the road

TheConversation: Running has been a popular recreational activity for many years. But for marathon runners who train outdoors, the significant proportion of time they spend in the sun means they are potentially exposed to harmful rays. Solar ultraviolet radiation can lead to sunburn, fatal skin cancers and cataracts – particularly when the exposure to the sun is for a long time or during the hottest time of the day. For runners, timing their sun exposure and protecting themselves from excess solar ultraviolet radiation are important in preventing the harmful effects of sun rays.

Think indoor tanning is a safer alternative to sitting in the sun? Think again

TheConversation: June 21 marks the official start of summer, signaling months of long days spent in the sun, vacations to warm and tropical locations, and, of course, suntans. In a quest for a perfect tan, many people – especially young white women between age 18 and 25 – may head to a tanning salon, using tanning booths, sunbeds and sunlamps to kick-start their tan. Others (including people who are more prone to burn instead of tan) may head to the salon to slowly develop a “base tan,” with the mistaken belief that it will prevent a sunburn. For many consumers of indoor tanning salons, this approach offers what they believe to be a safer alternative to outdoor tanning. But here’s the thing: indoor tanning is just as damaging to your health as lying out in the real sun.

Transparent UV Masks

IIT. India: Wouldn’t it be nice to have a transparent sunscreen lotion and yet protect your skin from harmful UV ? Engineered nanoparticles can now provide the right kind of mask.

Protecting Skin from UV Radiation

Author: Dr Bryan Cho University of California SF 2008-07-28
Sunblocks

Chemical sunblocks absorb UV radiation and convert light energy to heat. Physical sunblocks (Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect UV radiation away from your skin.