Heliotherapy and photoprotection

Heliotherapy utilizes sunlight, particularly its ultraviolet (UV) radiation, for therapeutic purposes. UV radiation has antiinflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiproliferative properties. It induces the production of vitamin D and other beneficial compounds for the skin. Heliotherapy is used in treating various conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, mycosis fungoides, and vitiligo. However, incorrect sun exposure can lead to sunburn, skin aging, and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. The amount of pigment released by melanocytes during sun exposure to protect the skin from UV-induced damage is dependent on phototype and is almost always insufficient for complete protection, especially in summer. This paper describes the relationship between heliotherapy and photoprotection, exploring how the sun can be both an ally and a formidable adversary.