5 tips for protecting your skin during the summer months
By Derma Health
Before we can get too comfortable with spring, the summer sun will be in full affect. Everyone will want to break out their sandals, shorts, bathing suits, and their favorite pair of sunglasses. But with beach bum attire and pretty sundresses come the dangers that coincide with spending prolonged time in the sun. Not only does the sun instigate skin cancer, it also speeds the aging process, leaving behind wrinkles, sun spots, freckles, uneven skin tone, and sunburns. Taking preventive measures this summer is necessary to keep your hemlines short and exposure to the sun minimal. Remember that sunscreen is not just for the beach or poolside cocktails; it is for every time you step outside—to shop at the farmers market or to walk the dog. Never head outdoors without wearing sunscreen.
Summer Sun Breakdown: The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays
Exposing yourself to the sun is not necessarily bad for us; in fact, it is our main source of Vitamin D. But too much time in the sun can have serious side effects on your health and well-being. The ideal amount of time in the sun is 15 minutes, preferably before 10am or after 2pm. The hours between 10am and 2pm are when the sun’s rays are the harshest. Your exposure during this time can be 10 percent UVB and 90 percent UVA—a combination that increases the chances of melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. So, what is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UVA: UVA rays are the longest wavelength of the sun, penetrating your inner layers of skin. Many people have already been exposed to high amounts of UVA rays throughout their lifetime. UVA rays are less intense than UVB, but UVA rays are 30–50 times more evident and are present throughout the daylight hours, even on cloudy days. This is why it is even more important to make wearing sunscreen a habit. Another downside to the UVA rays is that they are one of the main contributors to wrinkles and sunspots, speeding up the aging process significantly.
UVB: These pesky rays are the main culprit behind sunburns. Different than UVA rays, which penetrate the inner (dermis) section of the skin, UVB rays concentrate on the skin’s outer (epidermis) layers. The UVB rays differ throughout the day in regards to intensity but still have the ability to cause sun damage.
Now that you are aware of the two main types of sun exposure, here are our top five tips to help protect your skin during the summer months:
Tip #1: Make applying sunscreen a daily habit. It is the best way to help keep your skin protected from the harmful effects of the sun. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside, giving the product time to absorb into the skin. For those who apply makeup in the morning, make sure to purchase products that have SPF built in. Furthermore, look for products that offer protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, ensure you are protected throughout the day by reapplying SPF every few hours or more if necessary. If you are at the beach, reapply after getting wet.
Tip #2: For skincare regimens, it is important to find an SPF moisturizer that can provide you with sun protection and the moisture your skin needs to prevent aging and dryness. This is even more important for those who use cleanser with salicylic or glycolic acid. These types of cleansers can make sun damage even more prevalent, even increasing the amount of damage your skin receives in the sun’s rays.
Tip #3: Know your SPF factor, and do your research. SPF stands for “sun protection factor” and provides the length of time you can spend in the sun. For example, if your skin turns red after 10 minutes of sun exposure, an SPF 15 should allow you to spend up to 150 minutes in the sun without burning. Make sure to know what type of SPF works best for your skin.
Tip #4: Do your best to stay out of the sun during peak UVA and UVB times. The rule to live by is: the less time you spend in the sun during the hottest hours of the day, the less sun damage you will have. For those who exercise outdoors, try early morning hours or late evenings to avoid the harmful radiation.
Tip #5: It may sound a little strange, but ditching your tanks and shorts and opting for more clothing can provide you with an added layer of sun protection. Light, airy fabrics in light colors can keep you cool without exposing your skin to the harmful rays of the sun. Many fashion manufacturers are even working toward offering consumer clothing with SPF built in.
Over 40,000 patients have trusted Derma Health, a leader in medical aesthetic technology and premiere skincare services. Derma Health believes in promoting overall health and wellness by taking care of your body inside and out. We strive to not only take years off your outward appearance but also add quality years to a healthy you on the inside. At Derma Health, we treat the whole person, not just the symptom, and that means understanding each individual inside and out.
Highly credentialed and experienced medical personnel at five clinics in the Phoenix area, Derma Health services include: aesthetic and laser treatments for the face and body, Botox and dermal fillers, anti-aging treatments for reducing lines and wrinkles, skin tightening, hormone therapy, nutritional solutions, tumescent liposuction, and professional-grade skincare products.
Get a complimentary consultation at one of the five valley locations! Start your beauty transformation today. Call 602-903-1320, or visit www.dhiskin.com/12news
