What is heliotherapy
Heliotherapy is a medical science that uses the beneficial effects on the body of exposure to sunlight. The sun's influence on health is profound: sunlight marks the various biological rhythms (sleep and wakefulness, for example) and influences the optimal functionality of the metabolism, promotes the activation of vitamin D and stimulates the immune and hormonal system and many physiological and biochemical reactions of the organism.
Exposure modes and times
The exposure time to sunlight can vary from 15 minutes to one "hour, depending on the subjective sensitivity of the skin to solar radiation (example: subjects with light phototype, dark complexion, etc.) and the type of disturbance for which one resorts to "heliotherapy. Furthermore, the hours of maximum solar intensity are generally avoided.
Avoid overexposure!
It is essential to be able to correctly dose exposure to solar radiation so that it is not violent: the time intervals should be short and repeated, also depending on the disorder to be treated.
Precautions
Here are some practical tips for those who want to take advantage of this healthy source of energy and limit potential unwanted effects:- Avoid sunbathing from 11am to 3pm
- Schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon
- Wear sunglasses (they protect from ultraviolet light) and suitable headgear.
- Pay attention to reflective surfaces: water, snow and sand on the beach reverberate radiation up to 80-90%.
- Apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) all over your skin at least 30 minutes before sunbathing.
Regardless of the sensitivity of your skin, avoid excessive exposure to the sun, especially if you are taking drugs or supplements containing photosensitizing active ingredients (which, activated by the sun, can cause photosensitivity reactions, increasing the risk of sunburn). are: tetracyclines, sulfonamides, diuretics, cortisones, sedatives and some laxatives.
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