With the changing of the seasons, don’t forget to keep your skin protected from the harmful rays of the sun! sunscreen and other sun protection methods are key in maintaining healthy skin and reducing your risk of skin cancer.
Types of Ultraviolet Radiation and their Effects on the Skin
Ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun comes in two forms: UVA and UVB. Although both can damage human skin, UVB is mostly responsible for causing sunburns. On the other hand, UVA penetrates deeper into human skin cells, resulting in long-term damage such as premature ageing or increased cancer risk. For this reason, it is important to use sunscreen that protects against both types of UV radiation.
Sunscreen and Its Role in Sun Protection
If you want to keep your skin looking its best, one of the most effective things you can do is to apply sunscreen any time you go outside. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from ultraviolet Radiation (UV) that would otherwise be absorbed. When choosing a sunscreen, look for one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. This will Filter out 97% of harmful UVB rays. If you have Fair skin, you might need to use sunscreen with an even higher SPF.
Other Forms of Sun Protection
In addition to sunscreen, staying out of direct sunlight, and wearing protective clothing, you can also stay safe from the sun by spending time in the shade. Remember that reflected sunlight from water, snow, and sand can be just as dangerous, so take extra care when participating in activities near these surfaces.
Benefits of Sun Protection
By applying sunscreen and taking other precautions against the sun, you can help prevent skin cancer and keep your skin looking young. overexposure to sunlight can cause premature ageing signs such as wrinkles, age spots, and a loss of elasticity in the skin. If you protect your skin from the sun, you will be able to maintain a more youthful appearance and lower your risk of developing cancer.
Importance of Year-Round Sun Protection
It’s important to be mindful of sun protection all year round – not just when the weather is hot or you’re spending time at the beach. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays can reach your skin and cause damage. This is especially true for those who work outdoors regularly, such as athletes, construction workers and farmers.
Failure to Take Necessary Precautions
Sun protection is essential, but many people still do not take the necessary precautions. The American Academy of Dermatology’s recent survey found that only 14% of men and 30% of women use sunscreen regularly on their face and other exposed skin. Each year, there are over 5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in America, making it the most prevalent form of cancer.
Regular Skin Examinations
Performing regular self-checks for signs of skin cancer is key. This means inspecting moles that are asymmetrical, have ragged borders, are multi-colored, or are larger in diameter than a pencil eraser. If you spot any changes to your skin, such as new moles or changes in existing moles, be sure to visit a dermatologist for evaluation.
In conclusion, sun protection is essential for maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are all effective ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. By making sun protection a part of your daily routine and regularly examining your skin for any
