Beware!

Sunlight, a major source of UVA and UVB radiation, penetrates deep into skin cells, and excessive exposure can lead to immune system suppression, eye cataracts, and multiple skin conditions. While UV rays are known to damage the skin’s collagen fibers and cause premature aging and sunburn, they are also responsible for the deadliest form of skin cancer: malignant melanoma. Although the incidence of skin cancer among people with a darker skin tone is lower than in Caucasians due to the extra melanin in the skin that limits the absorption of UV rays in the deeper layer of skin cells Darker people are at risk of developing skin cancers from unrestricted exposure to the sun. Additionally, these rays can also aggravate multiple skin diseases and conditions, including Sjogren’s syndrome and rosacea, among many others. The harmful bands of UV radiation reach the Earth even on a cloudy day and have their effects indoors as well, so it is essential to always take precautionary measures as a defensive mechanism to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.

How to defend yourself?

Sunscreen is widely recommended by dermatologists as the leading UV protection strategy; Sun protection products have evolved tremendously over the years based on consumer needs and technological advances. Sunscreens are now being incorporated as a vital ingredient in the manufacture of a wide range of products, from traditional sun creams to daily skin care and cosmetic products. Responding to the growing demand for healthier and more effective sun care products, the sun care industry has effectively provided consumers with a wide range of products to choose from based on their lifestyle and skin type. Sunscreens that offer multiple properties are now available in the form of creams, lotions, gels, and sprays that are cost-effective and therefore more attractive to customers.

Choose your sunscreen wisely.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration, choose a sunscreen that provides “broad-spectrum protection” to address both UVA and UVB rays. While all sunscreen creams protect against UVB rays, UVA rays, which are responsible for causing premature aging and skin cancers, are specifically blocked by products that offer broad-spectrum protection. Also, a product with an SPF of 30 or higher should be used as a face and body sunscreen where the SPF factor indicates the level of protection it provides. However, no sunscreen can completely protect you; SPF 30 filters about 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 filters about 98.8%, beyond which there is a minimal increase in protection.

For best results, sunscreen should be used 30 minutes before going out in the sun so it can be fully absorbed into the skin, and should be reapplied at least every two hours (even more if you swim or sweat). According to Dr. Noor Almaani, a consultant dermatologist at King Edward VII Hospital in Windsor, two milligrams of sunscreen is required per square centimeter of skin: six teaspoons for the adult body and about three teaspoons for children. It is essential that sun protection is applied to all exposed parts of the body, including the ears and neck. However, use of sunscreen should be avoided on children under the age of six, as their skin is too thin and sensitive to chemicals. Therefore, they must be kept out of the sun completely.

What other thing?

Also, extra precautions should be taken to stay safe in the sun. Seek shade as much as possible and avoid going out between 10 am and 4 pm, when UV rays are strongest. Be sure to wear loose, lightweight protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect as much skin as possible when you go out. Also, protect your eyes by including sunglasses in your outfit to block about 99% of harmful UV rays from reaching your retina. The intensity of the sun’s rays depends on factors such as the altitude of your location and the time of year. While UV rays are strongest during the summers, they reflect off snow and water during the winter months, increasing your chances of sunburn. Therefore, plan your activities accordingly.

As much as you want to bask in the summer sun while it lasts, don’t forget to take care of your super skin! Stay safe in the sun and be sure to put on plenty of sunscreen. Keep a close eye on how you dress when you go out and limit your time in the sun. With this in mind, you are good to appreciate the comfort of the wonderful summer sun.