Madonna does not sunbathe, which is bad for her health; Understanding | health

In Rio de Janeiro for the show that will take place in Copacabana on Saturday (4), the singer Madonna does not usually sunbathe, and she even said that she hates it. Since her childhood, the 65-year-old artist has avoided exposure to sunlight as much as possible, and wears long clothes, a hat, and glasses when exposed to sunlight, with the aim of taking care of the health of her skin and preventing aging. . But, according to experts, not taking sunbaths regularly is harmful to the body.

After doing everything in her power to avoid the sun for years, Madonna received a doctor’s recommendation to expose herself to the sun after being hospitalized and entering a coma caused by a serious bacterial infection in 2023.

– And I hate the sun, but I did it anyway, and it was very difficult for me to walk from my house to the backyard and sit in the sun – said Madonna at a show in March of this year.

The main harm caused by not being exposed to sunbathing is related to vitamin D, which is a substance that performs a series of functions in the body, as it works to strengthen the immune system, strengthen muscles, bones, and teeth, and prevent diseases.. The human body produces vitamin D from exposure to sunlight. Those who do not sunbathe end up with low levels of vitamin D, which is harmful to their health..

In addition to, Exposure to sunlight helps improve mood by increasing the secretion of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that acts in the brain and is associated with feelings of well-being and pleasure..

Vitamin D is a hormone that performs metabolic and immune functions, among other important reactions in the body. It regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism, synthesizes natural antibiotics by defense cells, regulates autoimmunity, among other functions, such as possible preventive action in carcinogenic processes – explains dermatologist Victor Bechara, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and professor of cosmetics in the university. Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ).

Lack of exposure to sunlight and insufficient vitamin D can lead to:

• Muscle weakness.
• ⁠Fatigue;
• ⁠ Bone or muscle pain.
• ⁠ Increased exposure to infection.
• Mood changes;
• ⁠Hair loss;
• ⁠ Difficulty in wound healing.

It takes, on average, 15 to 20 minutes of sunlight per day on a limb (arm or leg) to produce vitamin D, at least three times a week.. It does not need to be long, not even on the entire body, as the beginning of exposure to it is sufficient to activate production, according to experts.

— The use of sunscreens does not significantly alter the production of vitamin D, since exposure for a long time and a large area of ​​the body is not necessary for its production, according to studies and the Brazilian Society of Dermatology — indicates the dermatologist.

— The sun is essential for our survival and health, however, controlled sun exposure, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, is recommended, with priority given to periods up to 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

According to dermatologist Tracy Cobelco de Toledo, of Casa de Saúde São José, in Rio de Janeiro, the times of greatest absorption and production of vitamin D are those with the highest percentage of UV rays. But also during this period, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., there are peaks of radiation that increase the chance of developing skin cancer. Therefore, using sunscreen is essential.

— Products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher are recommended for daily use and also for longer exposure to the sun, such as at the beach, pool, and fishing. The product must protect against UVA and UVB rays – as advised by the specialist.

— Apply the product 30 minutes before exposure to sunlight until it is absorbed by the skin. Distribute it evenly on all parts of the body, including hands, ears, neck and feet. Reapply every two hours. However, this period is reduced if there is excessive sweating or if you enter water – as advised.

— It is also important to protect scars, especially new scars, which can darken if exposed to the sun. The elderly must also be protected, as there is a risk of tumors, although this is a rare event.

Tracy Kobelko of Toledo He is a dermatologist at Casa de Saúde São José, in Rio de Janeiro.

Victor Bishara He is a dermatologist, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and Professor of Aesthetic Medicine at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ).