Sun protection is the most important step you can take to promote and maintain healthy, young looking skin. Follow the simple guidelines below. You'll preserve your skin, your vision, and even your immune system!
I live in a coastal community. It's easy to spot the sun worshippers as they age. I spent too many youthful days baking on the beach myself. Unfortunately, it shows!
Leathered skin and wrinkles are actually the least worrisome consequence of sunbathing. The invisible damage to eyes, the immune system, and the threat of skin cancer are far more serious.
An article on sun safety reported by Reuters Health is ominous ...
There is an unrecognized epidemic of skin cancer underway in the United States, the American Academy of Dermatology warns.
Sun Protection Guidelines
What can you do? Take the advice of a reformed sun lover (me). Practice these 6 easy habits suggested by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Play it safe, play it smart ...
Minimize sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rays are strongest during these hours. Remember, however, you can still burn at other times.
Seek Shade. Shade is a good source of protection, but keep in mind that shade structures (e.g., trees, umbrellas, canopies) do not provide 100% sun protection.
Wear a Hat. A hat with a wide brim provides protection for your eyes, ears, face, and the back of your neck. These spots are particularly vulnerabele to overexposure.
Cover Up. Wearing tightly woven, loose-fitting, full-length clothing is a good way to shield your skin from harmful rays.
Wear Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection. This will greatly reduce exposure that can lead to cataracts and other eye damage.
Use Sunscreen. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen (the Best Sunscreen) with an SPF 15 or higher. Apply liberally to exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours, and after working, swimming, playing, or exercising. Even waterproof sunscreen wears off with towel drying, sweating, and extended periods of fun in the water.
Avoid Sunlamps and Tanning Parlors. The light source from sunbeds and sunlamps damages both skin and eyes.
The EPA reminds us that an estimated 80% of lifetime exposure to the sun occurs during the first 18 years. Children are outside more than adults. It is especially important to consider proper sun protection for our children (but we already knew that!).
