Our human bodies were designed to make the most of the sun. We can stay alert throughout the day and sleep soundly at night with the help of sunlight, which regulates our sleep cycles.
But, did you know that the same sun can be harmful to our skin? Find out, in this article how this happens and how to protect your skin from the sun.
A combination of visible and invisible photons or waves make up the sunlight that reaches Earth. Long waves, like radio waves, are safe for people to be around.
However, shorter waves, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can be problematic. The longest UV rays that make it to the surface of the Earth are known as UVA rays. The shortest ones are referred to as UVB rays.
Sunburn can result from too much UVB exposure. Although UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays, both can harm your skin. UV rays disrupt sensitive processes within skin cells, which have an impact on the development and look of the skin.
Long-term sun exposure, according to dermatologists who treat skin conditions, can result in brown spots, red, scaly areas, drying and wrinkling, and, worst of all, skin cancer.
Here are ten ways to protect your skin from the sun.
Remember to apply sunscreen
Remember to apply a strong coating of sunscreen to all exposed body areas before leaving the house. Also, always get assistance for a difficult-to-reach area like your back.
A sun protection factor (SPF) number is given to sunscreens to indicate how well they filter ultraviolet (UV) rays. Greater numbers denote greater protection. Even on cool or partly overcast days, you should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15.
The term “broad-spectrum” on a product’s label denotes that the sunscreen blocks exposure to both UVA and UVB radiation. Premature ageing and skin cancer are mostly brought on by UVA radiation, which deeply enters the skin. Sunburn is brought on by UVB rays that strike the skin’s surface.
Stay away from “peak sun”
Limiting sun exposure is the greatest method to preserve skin health and avoid skin cancer. Spend as little time as possible in the sun and prefer to be in the shade of the sun. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and sunglasses, and wear sunscreen.
When the sun is at its strongest at that period, sunscreen is extremely crucial.
Choose the right outfit
UV radiation protection comes from long sleeves, long pants, and long skirts. The best defence is provided by tightly woven textiles. Darker colours offer greater UV protection than lighter ones, while a damp T-shirt provides far less UV protection than one that is dry. UV protection is a feature of some clothing that has been made to international standards and certified.
Try to dress comfortably by wearing a T-shirt or a beach cover-up if wearing this kind of clothing isn’t an option. Consider using additional forms of protection because the SPF of a regular T-shirt is less than 15, which is why.
Accessorize with a hats
Wear a hat with a wide brim that covers your face, ears, and neck for the maximum amount of protection. Your skin will be most protected from UV radiation by tightly woven fabrics like canvas. Avoid straw hats with sunlight-letting holes. Perhaps a darker hat will provide greater UV defence.
In addition to protecting your ears and the back of your neck from the sun if you wear a baseball cap, you should also use sunscreen. Ensure that you wear clothing that covers those regions.
Invest in sunglasses
Your eyes will be shielded from UV radiation and cataract risk by wearing sunglasses. Additionally, they shield your eyes’ delicate skin from the sun.
The best protection is provided by sunglasses that reflect both UVA and UVB radiation. Regardless of price, most sunglasses sold in the US comply with this requirement. Because they prevent UV rays from entering from the side, wrap-around sunglasses are the most effective.
Look for shade
By finding shade under a tree, an umbrella, or some other structure, you can lower your risk of skin cancer and solar damage.
Even still, applying sunscreen or donning protective clothes is your best bet for keeping your skin safe when you’re outside, even in the shadow.
Go easy on or completely avoid sunbathing
Everyone should avoid sunbathing, but fair-skinned people should avoid it at all costs. Many of them are unable to tan, putting them at risk of getting a bad burn.
Go slowly and wait for your skin’s melanin to gradually grow to provide some protection if you insist on continuing to sunbathe. Tanning oils should also be avoided because they intensify the effects of UV rays and aggravate burns.
Consider the Daily UV Index
Your local weather forecast frequently includes the daily UV index. On a scale from one to eleven plus, the index determines the risk of excessive sun exposure. A higher number denotes a higher level of risk. When there is a UV alert, the UV index in your location is predicted to be high—six or higher—and particularly severe for the time of year. If there is a UV advisory in your area, exercise extreme caution or stick to indoor activities.
Be Wary of Reflection
Your exposure to UV radiation is increased when certain surfaces reflect the sun. You should consider reflection if you are near snow, sand, or water. You are much more likely to get sunburn as a result. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including your lips.
Check Medications
Your skin’s sensitivity to the sun may be increased by several drugs. Various antibiotics, diuretics, antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering pharmaceuticals, acne meds, high blood pressure medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are typical examples. Consult your chemist if you take prescription or over-the-counter drugs to find out if they enhance your chance of getting sunburned while exposed to the sun.
Conclusion
Despite these increasingly well-known risks associated with sun exposure, a lot of us occasionally neglect to protect our skin or simply can’t resist the fallacy that obtaining some colour from the sun makes us appear healthier.
The sun can damage your skin if you don’t protect it. Use the above tips to protect your skin from sunburn. It will be worthwhile in the long run.
