As we enjoy the beautiful summer months, it is important to remember that July is UV Safety Awareness Month. With this in mind, we want to highlight some essential tips to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
As we age, our skin becomes more susceptible to damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Reduced collagen and elastin production make the skin thinner and less resilient, making it more prone to sunburns, wrinkles, and age spots. Additionally, according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) and the Johns Hopkins Magazine, prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, which affects millions of Americans each year.
Sun Safety Tips
- Seek Shade: Limit your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If you must be outside during these hours, find shade under an umbrella, tree, or wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Be sure to apply it generously to all exposed areas of skin, even on cloudy days. Remember to reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Cover Up: Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from the sun’s rays. Look for clothes with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labels for added protection.
- Protect Vulnerable Areas: Pay special attention to areas that are often overlooked but are prone to sunburn, such as the ears, back of the neck, hands, and tops of the feet. Apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing to safeguard these areas.
- Stay Hydrated: Aging skin can be more prone to dehydration, so drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Staying hydrated helps keep your skin healthy and less susceptible to damage.
- Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications can increase sensitivity to UV radiation, making your skin more susceptible to sunburn. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any of your prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs have this side effect.
- Regular Skin Examinations: Conduct self-examinations of your skin regularly, looking for any changes, such as new moles, growths, or lesions. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Remember, taking steps to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for maintaining healthy and vibrant skin as you age. By incorporating these simple sun safety practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy the outdoors while reducing your risk of skin damage and related health issues.
Stay safe and savor the joys of summer while keeping your skin protected!
For more information visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/uv-radiation-safety/index.html
https://hub.jhu.edu/at-work/2022/07/12/uv-safety-awareness-month/
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