Sun Protection
Why protect against the sun?
In the past, sun exposure was thought to be a healthy benefit of outdoor activity. However, studies have shown many unhealthy effects of sun exposure, such as early aging of the skin and skin cancer.
What kind of damage does sun exposure cause?
Part of the sun's energy that reaches earth is composed of rays of invisible ultraviolet (UV) light. When ultraviolet light rays (UVA and UVB) enter the skin, they damage skin cells, causing visible and invisible injuries resulting in increased numbers of moles, freckles, wrinkles, and skin cancers.
Ultraviolet light rays also cause invisible damage to skin cells. Some of the injury is repaired, but some of the cell damage adds up year after year. After 20 to 30 years or more, the built-up damage appears as wrinkles, age spots, and even skin cancer.
Do i have to worry aboutsun protection on cloudy days?
The clouds block a good part of UVB, the burning rays, but they do not block UVA, the tanning rays. Therefore, while there is less probability of getting sunburn, the skin is exposed to the deeper penetrating UVA rays, which cause tanning and wrinkling. As a result, it is important to stay protected from the sun, even on cloudy days.
How do i select the right sunscreen?
Everybody should be kept out of direct sun and be covered by protective clothing when possible. If sun exposure is unavoidable, sunscreen should be applied to exposed areas (i.e. face, hands). Sunscreens have been deemed safe for infants older than 6 months of age.
Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. The protective ability of sunscreen is rated by its Sun Protection Factor (SPF) – the higher the SPF, the stronger the protection. Sunscreens labeled as “broad spectrum” indicate that they have passed the test for protection against UVA. Spread sunscreen evenly over all uncovered skin, including ears and lips, but avoid the eyelids.
Physical sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide and they usually give a chalky appearance to the skin. These are more effective and safe in children, pregnant women and patients with sensitive skin.
What if Sunscreen Makes Eyes or Skin Burn?
Look for sunscreens that are fragrance free and use ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these tend to be less irritating. Check the labels and try different products. Consult with your dermatologist if you continue to have trouble finding a suitable product.
What About the Controversies Regarding Sunscreens?
Hats, clothing, and shade are the most reliable forms of sun protection. Few people use enough sunscreen to benefit from the SPF protection listed on the label; studies show that people typically use about a quarter of the recommended amount.
Many have also raised concerns about oxybenzone, which had been shown in animal studies to have effects on the endocrine system. It should be noted that this ingredient has been in use for over 40 years without any reported side effects in humans.
What about vitamin d?
Vitamin D is essential for many processes in the body. Studies have shown that regular use of suncreens does not affect the vitamin D levels. In individuals who practice rigorous sun protection, the official recommendation of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is that vitamin D can be easily and adequately obtained through dietary sources and supplementation.
How to protect your skin from the sun
1. Avoidance
If possible, avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It is best to plan indoor activities or seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or tents. One useful rule of thumb is that if your shadow is shorter than you, the sun is directly above and it is best to head for cover. Sun exposure is more intense closer to the equator, in the mountains, and in the summer. The sun's damaging rays are increased by reflection from water, white sand, and snow.
2. Sun protective clothing
Cover your skin with sun protective clothing when outdoors, including a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face, scalp, ears and neck. In addition to filtering out the sun, tightly woven clothing reflects heat and helps keep you feeling cool. Multiple retailers now sell sun protective clothing for adults and children. Sunglasses with UV protection can help protect the eyes and eyelids from the harmful effects of UV light. Not all sunglasses have UV protection, so be sure to check the label.
3. Sunscreen
Block sun damage by applying a broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher 20-30 minutes before going outside and reapply at least every 4hours, even on cloudy days. If swimming or sweating, sunscreen needs to be applied more often. There is no such thing as a “waterproof” sunscreen. Instead, look for products that say “water resistant” for use in water. Reapply more frequently if perspiring excessively or toweling off frequently.