“Relaxing by the ocean is like taking a mental-health holiday–but it also sets off a series of fascinating physical effects”
The sunshine on your skin triggers your brain to release endorphins, natural narcotics that help curb pain and brighten your mood (even when you’re wearing SPF).
The sun’s rays come to earth in two wavelengths: ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B. Both seep into your skin and are absorbed by pigment cells called melanocytes. Feels good, but UV damages DNA in melanocytes and elsewhere in the body.
Those same rays prompt your skin to start producing the supernutrient vitamin D. (If you used dermatologist-recommended broad-spectrum SPF 30–and you should!–the lotion is blocking most UV rays and the vitamin D–making process. But you can still get your daily 1,000 IU of D via food and supplements.)