Summer is Near! The sun is beautiful, and the warmth is joyous to feel on your face. However, the sun’s UV light can be harmful to our skin.
Use SPF 30 or greater. Broad spectrum (UVA UVB), and Water Resistant
Apply sunscreen 15-30 mins prior to going outdoors. You do not need to be on the beach to get exposed to the dangerous UV rays. Use sunscreen all the time before going outside.
Reapply after swimming or sweating and 2 hours after being in the full sun. Water Resistant sunscreen lasts approximately 80-90 mins in the sun.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, every child needs to wear sunscreen regardless of the skin tone of SPF 30 or greater. It is a myth that darker skin people will never burn, it will just take a longer time in the sun to receive a sunburn vs lighter complexed people.
People who wear makeup should apply sunscreen prior to makeup. Most sunblock makeups do not contain enough SPF if sitting out in the Sun.
Avoid having infants less than 6 months in the direct sun. Their skin is very thin and has less melanin. The best protection is to cover up and keep them in the shade. Dress babies in lightweight clothes that cover arms and legs and cover their heads with a lightweight hat with a brim. Use sunscreen for the areas that are exposed.
Other tips: Wear 100% UV sunglasses. Sun UV rays can damage the eyes and the deeper layers in the eye.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a CDC report shows that only 14% of men and 30% of women make regular use of sunscreen. It is the simplest step you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer.
Another benefit of applying sunscreen is that it helps prevent skin redness and inflammation. Spending an excess amount of time outdoors can cause problems such as:
· Sunburn
· Severe skin inflammation
· Redness
The Medical News Today reports that UV rays can damage the skin and cause redness as more blood is directed to the affected area to fix the damage.
Using the right SPF sunscreen can also help avoid hyperpigmentation. Uneven skin pigmentation can occur in certain areas of the skin when they become darkened or discolored. While this can be caused due to hereditary conditions, sun exposure can also cause it. Blotchy skin can appear on the hands, face, and other body parts when exposed to the sun. Wearing sunscreen is a simple way to avoid hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
It is recommended to wear your sunscreen even on cloudy days. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 80% of UV rays from sunlight will still get through in cloudy conditions. So, you are not safe from the harmful effects of sunlight, even when you have an overcast day.
Additional Tip: It is also important to stay hydrated when you are outdoors.
Summertime is meant to be fun time, full of great memories. Follow the above-mentioned tips to ensure you keep your skin and eyes safe and healthier.
For tips on keeping kids safe during summer play time, call and discuss @Pediatric Heroes Primary Care Clinic. To make summer smart and safe. Call us at (210) 625-5708
