Nothing damages the skin like excessive sun exposure. Not only can too much sun cause the skin to develop a leathery appearance, sunspots or other pigmentation problems, it’s also a huge risk factor for skin cancer. Below trusted Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Charles S. Lee, MD discusses ways to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays.
Ultraviolet Rays
While some sunshine is necessary to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels in the body, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are responsible for much premature skin aging. Every time you’ve gotten a sunburn or tan, you are damaging your skin. As your skin burns, it also loses elasticity, and that can make you look old before your time.
Once UV rays penetrate the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer, they then go deeper into the skin, killing cells in the process. Over time, prolonged UV exposure may result in skin cancer.
Sunscreen Is Critical
A quality sunscreen is a necessity for protecting your skin in warm weather. Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. If you’ve been for a swim or perspired heavily, reapply your sunscreen.
Don’t use sunscreen sparingly. Slather it on, rather than dabbing it on. Just wait several minutes so it is well-absorbed.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 12,000 Americans die annually from this disease. Using a good sunscreen will lower your risk of developing skin cancer. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not only for warm weather use, and is best used year-round for protection against harmful UV rays.
Sunglasses and Hats
Your eyes and face need sun protection, and the best ways to do that is by wearing UV-sunglasses while outside in daytime, as well as a wide-brimmed hat.
However, sun protection apparel is not limited to your head. When outdoors, wear a long-sleeved cotton shirt to protect your arms and shoulders from sun exposure, or choose clothing containing UV protection. The latter are made from fabric tightly woven to keep out UV rays.
Stay Indoors During the Heat of the Day
The parts of the day in which UV rays are strongest are generally between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If possible, stay indoors during that period, and venture out in the earlier morning, later afternoon or early evening.
For More Information, Contact Enhance® Medical Center
For more information about the best methods of protecting your skin from sun damage, and how to repair sun-damaged skin, schedule a personal consultation with Charles S. Lee, MD, or contact the Beverly Hills office of Enhance® Medical Center today.
