Tanned Skin = Damaged Skin: Protect Yourself Today
Who wants to trade healthy, glowing skin for wrinkles, brown spots, or even the risk of skin cancer? Prolonged sun exposure does just that—and the damage often starts long before it becomes visible. While many of us enjoy basking in the summer sun, no one wants to face the long-term effects of unprotected exposure. The good news is that staying safe outdoors is entirely possible when sun protection becomes part of your daily routine.
To protect your skin, try to avoid spending time outside when the sun is at its strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. During these hours, the sun’s rays are most intense and damaging. Both UVA and UVB rays are harmful in different ways: UVA rays penetrate deeply, causing wrinkles, aging, and increasing the risk of skin cancer, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and also contribute to skin cancer.
Sunscreen is your best ally in the fight against sun damage, so don’t leave home without it. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, ensuring it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously all over your body 15 to 30 minutes before stepping outside, and make sure it’s water-resistant for activities like swimming or sweating. Reapply every two hours for consistent protection, and don’t forget often-overlooked areas such as the ears, back of the neck, hands, and tops of the feet. Even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows, sunscreen is essential since UVA rays can penetrate clouds, glass, and even water. If you wear makeup, apply sunscreen first, allowing it to absorb before continuing with your routine. Be sure to protect your lips with an SPF lip balm, too.
Clothing can also serve as a powerful defense. Dark, tightly woven fabrics offer better protection than light-colored ones, and hats with built-in UV protection shield your face and scalp effectively. Sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses are a must to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
While umbrellas and shade trees can provide some relief, they aren’t foolproof. Reflected sunlight from surfaces like sand, water, snow, or concrete can still reach your skin, so don’t rely on shade alone. Avoid using tanning oils, as they intensify the sun’s rays and can cause significant damage to your skin.
Finally, be mindful of any medications you’re taking. Certain drugs, such as antibiotics like tetracycline, diuretics, and even herbal remedies like St. John’s Wort, can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing your risk of sunburn and irritation.
Your skin deserves the best care possible, and we’re here to help you keep it healthy and radiant. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation, and let us guide you in protecting your skin while enjoying the great outdoors.
See you soon.
