The Sun And Your Skin

Soaking up the sun’s rays used to be considered healthy…before we learned about the dangers of ultraviolet rays. Sunlight can be used to treat some skin diseases, but we all need to avoid overexposure to the sun. Too much sun can cause sunburn, wrinkles, freckles, skin texture changes, dilated blood vessels, and skin cancer.

The sun produces both visible and invisible rays. The invisible rays, known as ultraviolet-A (UVA) and ultraviolet-B (UVB), cause most of the problems. Both cause suntan, sunburn, and sun damage. There is no “safe” UV light.

Harmful UV rays are more intense in the summer, at high altitudes, and closer to the equator. The sun’s harmful effects are also increased by wind and reflections from water, sand and snow. Even on cloudy days UV radiation reaches the earth and cause skin damage.

Tips for Sun Protection

· Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 15 on all exposed skin including lips, even on cloudy days.

· If exposed to water, either through swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen should be used.

· Reapply sunscreen frequently.

· Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

· Sit in the shade whenever possible

· Wear protective, tightly-woven clothing

· Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day to avoid peak sunlight hours between 10 am and 4 pm.

Source: “The Sun and Your Skin” pamphlet from the American Academy of Dermatology