Avoiding Sun Damaged Skin
Did you know that up to 90 percent of
the visible changes commonly 
attributed to aging are caused by the sun?
So, if you find yourself heading outside frequently, and who doesn't, you need to take basic steps to prevent sun damaged skin and more than that, against skin cancer.
Some key facts you should know about the effects of the sun on your skin and sun protection.
Tanning:
The skin's reaction or defense to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Sun Damaged Skin:
UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can cause DNA mutations that can result in skin cancer.
Damaging Forms of Sunlight:
The forms of sunlight that can cause sun damage and contribute to skin cancer are the invisible waves of ultraviolet light classified as UVA and UVB.
- UVA does more damage because it penetrates much deeper. UVA is the same strength year round, penetrating through windows, light clothing. Ultraviolet radiation (UVA) is a proven human carcinogen, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- UVB rays penetrate the top layer of the skin and can cause sunburn.
SUNSCREEN FACTS:
SPF and UVB Protection:
An SPF factor in sunscreens refers to UVB protection. SPF 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer that you could without sunscreen.
UVA Protection:
Sunscreen ingredients that protect against UVA rays include: Micronized Zinc Oxide, Micronized titanium Oxide and Avobenzone (Parsol 1789)
MAXIMUM PROTECTION:
Broad Spectrum Sunscreens contain protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
THREE SIMPLE GUIDELINES:
Whenever you are going to be outside to protect against sun damaged skin:
- Apply your broad spectrum sunscreen early (e.g., 15 to 30 minutes before you go out)
- Reapply after going in the water or excessive sweating and otherwise every two hours.
- Don't be fooled by cloudy days.
For more information, view this educational video on sunscreen.