Spending time outdoors during summer is often an enjoyable, relaxing experience. It’s fun to splash in the pool or sunbathe in the sand. Yet, whenever you're outdoors, you expose your skin to the sun’s UV rays. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just 15 minutes of UV exposure can damage your skin. What can you do about this? Here are some steps to help protect your skin.
The American Cancer Society recommends choosing a sunscreen that offers at least an SPF of 30. It should be a broad-spectrum sunscreen product to provide you with the highest level of protection. Apply it to your skin as a part of your normal routine any time you plan to leave your home, even for short periods. If you are outdoors, reapply sunscreen at least once every two hours. This should be done more often when you are sweating or swimming.
Whenever you are outside, find shade and remain under it. Shade helps reduce the amount of direct exposure your skin gets. That’s important even when you are wearing sunscreen. Choosing a tree or a shaded area near a building is best. Bring an umbrella with you if you go to the beach or a pool. This is one of the best ways to reduce the impact of the sun’s rays on your skin.
While using sunscreen is important, it can be even better to simply keep your skin covered up. If you are likely to be outdoors for long periods of time, wear a lightweight pair of pants and a long-sleeved shirt. This helps to minimize the risk of UV rays directly hitting your skin. Keep in mind that if your shirt is wet, it will significantly reduce the amount of UV protection the shirt offers. To keep cool, choose light-colored clothing. However, avoid wearing white because sunlight can easily penetrate this color.
Many people don’t recognize that their eyes are also at risk for sun damage. Wear sunglasses to help reduce the risk of developing cataracts. Look for sunglasses that block UVB and UVA rays for the best level of protection. This type of eyewear not only protects your eyes but can also help to limit the dryness and fine lines that develop around the eyes, which are common signs of aging.
In addition to taking steps to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, it is also important to minimize sunlamp and tanning bed exposure. Even if these products promise to provide protection and limited exposure, they are still not good for your skin. They can cause long-term skin damage. In some cases, they can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
If you do notice any signs of damage to your skin, seek out help. Don’t assume sunburn is no big deal. Rather, seek care from a skin care professional as soon as possible.
It’s always important to ensure your skin is in the best condition. To do that, come to see Rachel Spieldoch, MD, at McDowell Mountain Gynecology in Scottsdale, Arizona, for an appointment. If you do have areas of fine lines and wrinkles from the sun, we can offer treatment options. Call us now to book an appointment or request an appointment online.
