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A suntan is actually damage to the epidermis - the outer layer of the skin. Suntan is the consequence of the increased production of melanin (skin pigment that gives skin pinkish, brownish, and black color), initiated by the Ultraviolet light (UV radiation). Surplus of melanin, generated by tanning is actually the protective reaction of the skin, which thus prevents the penetration of dangerous ultraviolet into the deeper layers of skin. This surplus leads to the appearance of a darker nuance of the skin. The nuance depends on the specific features of the skin, on the UV spectrum, which is various in different regions of the planet, and on the creams or sprays used for sun tanning. It is worth remembering that the ultraviolet spectrum of sunlight is sufficiently wide and that some of its features are offensive. With the curtailment of the action of ultraviolet a quantity of melanin gradually returns to standard, and the suntan disappears. The protection of the skin against sun tanning has its limits. At some point there comes a moment, when the darkening turns into reddening, which indicates that the skin cannot protect itself anymore.
Suntan and Psoriasis
What about the effect of the sun on psoriasis? The fact is that UVB light kills the T-cells, and therefore destroys psoriatic plaques, as well as some tests show that the improvement in psoriatic skin following the UVB effect is also due to a reduced capacity of the surviving dermal T cells to express the pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-gamma.
Does it make sense to suntan in order to temporarily get rid of psoriasis? Absolutely, as long as you do not have, the summer type psoriasis, that aggravates under the effects of the sun. The benefits of the sun for the people with psoriasis usually outweigh the possible side-effects.
If you want to try spending time in the sun to improve your psoriasis, simply start slowly and keep a record of what time of day and for how long you are exposed to the sun. Start with at least 3 times a week for half an hour each time. It may also be a good idea to see your dermatologist regularly to monitor your skin for any possible sun damage.
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