Fun in the sun – it can boost mental health and provide opportunities to exercise and socialize. But without proper sun protection, sun exposure can also be a big summer bummer. Make a plan so you can enjoy sunshine without worrying about the serious dangers of harmful UV rays.
Sun Damage Can Lead to Wrinkles, Spots, Burns and Skin Cancer
Soaking up the sun comes with exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV), which can actively damage skin cells. The level of UV radiation on any given day changes depending on the conditions, which is why it’s important to check daily UV forecasts before heading outside.
Sun damage can occur even in conditions that you least likely expect, like on a clear winter day. Reflections off snow or water can intensify UV radiation. And if you think you can skip the danger by visiting the tanning salon instead, think again. Tanning beds and sunlamps also expose the skin to UV rays – in many cases, at even higher levels.
All that exposure to UV rays can jeopardize the body’s largest organ – the skin. In addition to accelerating visible signs of aging, like wrinkles and spots, sun damage can lead to a much more concerning outcome: skin cancer.
We now know that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet an estimated 1 out of 5 people in the United States will develop the condition at some point in their life. Taking proper sun protection is a proven way to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
Sun Exposure Can Be Healthy – In Moderation!
But wait, I thought sun exposure was good for me! It is – in moderation. Sun exposure naturally kickstarts the production of vitamin D, which is critical in maintaining strong and healthy bones. Sunlight also plays a significant role in regulating the body’s natural circadian rhythms, leading to a more regular sleep cycle.
So yes, sunshine is good for you. But like many things in life, moderation is key. There is no hard and fast rule about how much sun exposure is the right amount, because the amount of pigmentation in the skin from melanin can play a role in how quickly an individual absorbs UV rays.
While most people shouldn’t try to avoid the sun altogether, it is definitely worthwhile to monitor sun exposure and take proper precautions to avoid getting too much of a good thing.
6 Tips for Smart Sun Protection
- Schedule outdoor activities for morning and evening to avoid peak UV intensity. Avoid sun exposure between 10am – 2pm, when the sun is strongest.
- Rethink your wardrobe. Consider UPF clothing, lightweight linens, swim shirts and broad hats for better coverage.
- Be smart with sunscreen. Favor broad-spectrum formulas that are water resistant and reapply every few hours.
- Load your diet with nutrients that promote healthy skin. Beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and niacin are power players for skin health.
- Stay vigilant all year. Sun protection isn’t limited to summertime. Take precautions year-round.
- Monitor skin for changes. Catching sun damage early can be key for successful treatment and recovery. Talk to a dermatologist if you notice changes, including crusty patches, blurry moles, or an irregular freckle darker in coloration than the rest.
