It’s a well known fact that sun damage is the number one factor in skin cancer as well as in the aging of the skin. In fact, from 1973 to 2003, the incidence of melanoma, which is the deadliest skin cancer, rose by 81 percent.
Thus it’s very important for you to research this topic thoroughly as well as read every article in this section.
The first section is an overview of how to jumpstart your sun protection program. It provides guidance on protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. This is only an overview. In order to go deeper into the subject, be sure to read all the other articles.
Basic Sun Protection 101
Sun Protection
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends some basic protective actions in order to counter UV-exposure:
- While planning outside activities, aim for early or late in the day. Avoid the hours between 10a.m. and 4p.m. which are the peak sunlight hours.
- Avoid any kind of tanning beds.
- Wear clothing which covers, like a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat as well as sunglasses, where possible.
- Wear sunglasses which cover as much of your face as possible as well as protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Try and stay in the shade when you can.
- Use a sunscreen having a SPF of at least 15 and apply it on any exposed area, even if it’s cloudy.
- Protect yourself from UV exposure even while you are indoors or driving.
- In case you have sensitive skin, use a sunscreen with an increased SPF of 30 or higher.
- Water, snow as well as sand are highly reflective and can increase your chance of sunburn, so make sure that you are well protected.
- In case you are going for swimming or engaging in sweaty activities, use a water-resistant sunscreen.
- Never seek the sun. For your vitamin D needs, get it from your diet; or include supplements if needed.