Sun Protection Tips Our skin is the largest organ of the body and often the most neglected. It is our first line of defense against pollutants, ultraviolet violet (UV) radiation and other environmental factors.
A regular skin regimen coupled with SPF sunscreen and topical antioxidants has proven effective in minimizing the damaging effects of the environment as well as helping to protect skin health.Use sunscreen with SPF 15 daily, even in winter. Remember to re-apply sunscreen after perspiring and swimming. Limit sun exposure and practice sun avoidance (especially midday). Wear protective clothing, sunglasses with UV protection and hats with wide brims.
Sunlight and Healthy Skin Short bursts of time in the sun help the body to naturally produce vitamin D. The UV rays from sunlight stimulate vitamin D synthesis, which in turn supports calcium absorption to form and maintain strong bones. Excessive exposure to sunlight without sunscreen, however, can result in sunburn and greatly increase one’s risk of developing skin cancer. UV radiation from the sun is increasing globally due to what scientists describe as the Earth's depleting ozone layer. It strikes Earth as either UV-A or UV-B radiation (long and short wavelengths of ultraviolet light). In addition, recent studies have shown that non-melanoma skin cancers are on the rise among young adults, particularly women. Doctors have long encouraged sun protection to prevent skin damage. Sunscreens of at least SPF 15 can limit exposure to UV radiation. Antioxidants have been shown to help protect the skin from the damage caused by UV radiation when applied topically. The combination activity of antioxidants and SPF sunscreens provides superior skin protection. However, because additional factors can contribute to the formation of skin cancers, using a sunscreen alone is not a foolproof method for preventing the development of skin cancers.
Protect yourself from the sun:The most important way to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun. A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, freckles, age spots and rough, dry skin. Sun exposure can also cause more-serious problems, such as skin cancer. For the most complete sun protection:Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when the sun’s rays are the strongest.Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats. You might also opt for special sun-protective clothing, which is specifically designed to block ultraviolet rays while keeping you cool and comfortable. Use sunscreen when you’re in the sun. Apply generous amounts of broad-spectrum sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, after heavy sweating or after being in water.
A regular skin regimen coupled with SPF sunscreen and topical antioxidants has proven effective in minimizing the damaging effects of the environment as well as helping to protect skin health.