Dr. Maria Politou |Greek Summer, Sunshine, and UV Radiation: How Can I Protect My Skin?

Greek Summer, Sunshine, and UV Radiation: How Can I Protect My Skin?

Maria Politou
Dermatologist-Venereologist
Senior Registrar, 1st University Dermatology Clinic, “Andreas Syggros” Hospital
Board Member, Hellenic Society of Dermatology and Venereology (HSVD)

Sunlight is a source of life and well-being. However, excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation carries significant risks, as it damages skin cells — ranging from sunburns to photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. Overexposure during childhood accelerates the appearance of such damage, since children’s skin is thinner, more sensitive, and produces less melanin, making it more vulnerable to UV radiation.

Although modern lifestyles and beauty standards often glorify sun-kissed skin, it is vital to remember that skin cancer concerns us all. It is the most common form of cancer and its primary cause is unprotected, excessive sun exposure. The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable and, if detected early, treatable. All it takes is regular sun protection and frequent monitoring for suspicious skin changes.

Who Is at Greater Risk?

People with fair skin who burn easily.
Those with a history of childhood sunburns.
Individuals with prolonged sun exposure (due to work or leisure activities).
Those with intense sun exposure during vacations.
People who engage in sunbathing.
Individuals with more than 50 moles on their skin.
Those with a family history of skin cancer.
People over the age of 50.
Organ transplant recipients.

While skin cancer is everyone’s concern, prevention is both possible and essential. The key lies in three simple steps:

STEP 1: PRIMARY PREVENTION

Avoid excessive sun exposure. Seek shade and avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Wear protective clothing — preferably dark, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.
Use sunscreen with a high SPF (SPF >30) offering UVA and UVB protection. Sunscreen becomes effective 30 minutes after application and lasts for 2–3 hours, so reapplication is necessary. Remember: sunscreen is not just for the beach — use it year-round.
For infants under 6 months old, direct sun exposure should be avoided entirely. Sunscreen use is generally not recommended unless absolutely necessary and only for small areas.
For children over 6 months, prefer sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less irritating for sensitive skin. In addition to sunscreen, dress children in tightly woven clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.

STEP 2: SELF-EXAMINATION

Perform a thorough self-check once a month to monitor for any changes in existing moles or the appearance of new lesions. Examine your entire body — front and back — with extra attention to sun-exposed areas. Use a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror to inspect hard-to-see places.

STEP 3: REGULAR DERMATOLOGICAL VISITS

Schedule an annual dermatological screening. In addition, visit your dermatologist if you notice any moles or skin lesions that:

Change in size, color, and/or shape.
Look different from other moles.
Are asymmetrical or have irregular borders.
Exhibit multiple colors.
Bleed easily.
Have a shiny surface.
Resemble a sore that won’t heal.
Feel rough to the touch.

Sunshine is not our enemy — but it demands respect and precaution. Education from a young age, along with primary and secondary prevention, is the key to healthy skin. Let us not forget that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, yet it is one that can be prevented or successfully treated if diagnosed early.

Just three steps:
✅ Protect yourself from the sun
✅ Check your skin regularly
✅ Visit your dermatologist

This way, we can all enjoy our sun-drenched country safely.