Spending time in the sun can be enjoyable, but it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Exposure to the sun can cause premature aging, skin damage, and even skin cancer.
However, with so many options available, it can be challenging t o know what to do and what to avoid. Here are the dos and don’ts of sun protection for your skin.
1. Do Wear Sunscreen Every Day.
Wearing sunscreen is the easiest and most effective way to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Make sure to apply it every day, even when it’s cloudy or when you’re inside. It’s recommended to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which can block around 97% of UVB rays.
2. Do Reapply Sunscreen Every Two Hours.
It’s essential to rea pply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen can wear off or become less effective over time, so it’s crucial to reapply it regularly to ensure adequate protection.
3. Do Wear Protective Clothing.
Another way to protect your skin from the sun is to wear protective clothing. This includes clothing made with a tightly woven fabric that covers your arms, legs, and torso. You can also wear hats with wide brims to protect your face ears, and neck.
4. Do Stay in the Shade.
When possible, stay in the shade during the sun’s peak hours, between 10 am. and 4 pm. This can help minimize your skin’s exposure to harmful UV rays.
5. Don’t Rely on Sunscreen Alone.
Although sunscreen is essential, it’s not enough on its own. Make sure to wear protective clothing and stay in the shade as much as possible, especially during peak hours.
6. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Lips.
Your lips can also be affected by the sun’s harmful rays. Make sure to wear a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to protect them.
7. Don’t Use Tanning Beds.
Tanning beds use UV radiation to darken your skin. This type of radiation is just as harmful as the sun’s rays and can increase your risk of skin cancer. It’s best to avoid tanning beds altogether.
8. Don’t Use Expired Sunscreen
Using expired sunscreen can lead to decreased effectiveness and potentially harmful effects. be sure to check the expiration date before using any sunscreen.
9. Don’t Use Chemical Sunscreens on Children.
Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that can be absorbed into the skin and potentially cause health problems. It’s recommended to use mineral-based sunscreens, such as those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, on children
In conclusion, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and reducing your risk of skin cancer. The dos and don’ts of sun protection include wearing sunscreen every day, reapplying it every two hours, wearing protective clothing, staying in the shade, and protecting your lips. Additionally, its essential to avoid tanning beds, using expired sunscreen, and using chemical sunscreens on children.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society. (2021, May 19). Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, May 19). Sun Safety. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
