Sun Safety

By Rebecca Satoskar, MD

Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax

. http://www.fairfaxderm.com/

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Sun Safety

Spring is here! The American Academy of Dermatology provides us the following guidance regarding sun safety

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. The most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) is sun exposure.

Ultraviolet Radiation

Sunlight consists of two types of harmful ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB, both of which cause skin cancer. UVA rays (aging rays) can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots. These rays can pass through window glass. UVB rays (burning rays) cause the majority of sunburn. They are blocked by window glass.

Harmful UV rays are emitted from the sun year-round, even on cloudy days and penetrate the skin. There is no such thing as a “safe” tan. Every time you tan, you damage your skin. As this damage builds, it speeds up the aging of your skin and increases your risk for all types of skin cancer.

How To Protect Your Skin
From the Sun

The sun's rays are strongest between 10 AM and 2 PM. One good rule of thumb is, if your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade. Choose protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. Generously apply a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection), water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin.

For broadest sun protection, many dermatologists recommend mineral-based sunscreen containing primarily zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients. Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Be cautious near water, snow, and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn. Avoid tanning beds as ultraviolet light from tanning beds can cause skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.

How To Use Sunscreen

Use enough sunscreen to generously coat all skin that will not be covered by clothing. One ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) is the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body for most people. Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors.

Protect your lips by applying lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. If the sunscreen is expired, throw it out. In addition, look for visible signs that a sunscreen may no longer be good, such as obvious changes in the color or consistency of the product.

Spring and summer are wonderful times of year, and we can be out and about enjoying life, just remember to make smart sun decisions.