Many people think that a tan is healthy-looking. While a little bit of regular sun exposure is needed to produce vitamin D, overexposure is not only unattractive but incredibly unhealthy and even deadly. Too much exposure without protection can lead to cancer. How can you prevent over exposure to the sun? Follow this simple, but life saving information about sun exposure to protect your skin and avoid skin cancer! Read on to learn more.
Sun Exposure Facts to Keep In Mind
- Sunscreen of SPF 30 is your best bet. Above that, any increase in protection and benefits are marginal.
- Replace your sunscreen each year. It can go bad and lose effectiveness over time, especially if it has already been opened.
- Eat foods with phytochemicals to combat cancer. This includes berries, grapes, broccoli, and walnuts.
- Apply your sunscreen when your skin is dry, unless your sunscreen is one of the newer brands meant to be applied to wet skin.
- Believe it or not, you can experience sunburn through a window. Despite filtering most UVB rays, windows do not filter UVA rays, which cause sunburn.
- Even individuals with dark skin can develop skin cancer and other complications from over-exposure to the sun. You should still wear sunscreen and watch for sunburn regardless of your skin tone.
- Always wear sunscreen. If you will be outside for an extended period of time, a tee shirt or an umbrella alone is not enough protection. Dangerous rays can penetrate even our clothing so be sure your skin is protected.
- Children under the age of 18 are most at risk for over exposure to the sun so be sure to protect your little ones.
- If you do experience sunburn, treat the area with Aloe Vera as soon as possible and avoid repeated sunburns.
- Reapply your sunscreen after vigorous activity or swimming. Also reapply once every few hours while remaining in the sun.
- Get a yearly professional skin exam from your doctor. Early detection is important.
Even on Cloudy Days…
So what have we learned? Always be sure that your children are well protective. Combine protective clothing and shade with SPF 30 sunscreen. Even on cloudy days, you should still take these precautions. During the summer, the UVA rays of the sun are the most powerful, which means you are at a greater risk for overexposure. You will also want to take a bottle of water with you, along with your bottle of sunscreen, to remain hydrated. Remaining hydrated is another important part of staying happy and healthy during your time in the sun. If you have any other questions about sun exposure, ask your doctor.
