Galery

2

1

This is the unpredictable factor that clouds the otherwise bright future of the ozone layer. Based on current data and, if current trends continue, it is estimated that in about three decades, the ozone layer, and with it, the ultraviolet rays Β, will return to the satisfactory levels of the 1980s. "We're on our way towards recovery, but with all the hazards arising from climate change”, emphasizes Christos Zerefos. "Our fears are not to have more frequent events like the one in the winter of 2011 in the northern hemisphere due to the greenhouse effect. Climate change is one of the main hazards and people should know that the ozone layer has begun to recover, but the sun is still dangerous, especially for those who work outdoors."

Safe sunbathing

The UV index indicates how dangerous ultraviolet solar radiation is. Measurements and predictions for different regions of Greece are carried out by the National Network for measuring ultraviolet solar radiation (http://www.uvnet.gr). During certain seasons and times the value of the UV index in Greece can increase significantly, so special caution is advised. As the sun gets close to the horizon, the lower the index and hence the danger of ultraviolet rays is greater.

Exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to immediate and chronic health problems of the skin, eyes and immune system. Immediate effects of these rays are the burning of the skin and photokeratitis (inflammation of the cornea of ​​the eye). Chronic effects include cancer and premature skin aging, cataract and various diseases of the cornea of ​​the eye. Contrary to the skin, which absorbs ultraviolet rays and produces melanin, the eyes do not have this ability.

In order to protect your skin, use sunscreen with UVB and UVA rays filters. When sunbathing for the first time during the season sun protection factor 15 is recommended for adults and 20 for children, with particular emphasis on very young children and babies. "We recommend a reasonable protection. Do not use protection factor 50, even for children. They can enjoy the sun until 11 o’clock in the morning and after 4 o’clock in the afternoon, with a reasonable sun protection factor," says academician Zeferos.

In order to achieve the right sun protection factor effect for adults the correct amount of sunscreen is about 30-40 gr. (i.e. a handful!). The sunscreen should be applied before sun exposure and applied once again after coming out of the water.

In order to protect your eyes use sunglasses with UVA and UVB filters. The use of sunglasses is particularly important in children.