The sun gives out ultraviolet (UV) radiation that is made up of three types of rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays and most UVB rays don’t get through the ozone layer around the earth. However, UVA and some UVB rays do. These UV rays can cause wrinkles, sunburn and skin cancer.
Exposing your bare skin to the sun for short periods of time can be beneficial. This is because your skin uses UV rays to produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for developing and maintaining healthy bones. It may also help to reduce your risk of certain other diseases, including a number of cancers, although more research needs to be done to be certain. Being in the sun may also give you a sense of well being.
However, too much sun is harmful and can damage your skin, putting you at risk of developing skin cancer. Too much sun can also damage your eyes. It's important to get a balance between enjoying the benefits of the sun and reducing your chances of developing health problems.
For more information
http://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/directory/s/sun-care
