prevention
UV radiation from the sun isn’t just dangerous, it’s also sneaky. Not only can it cause premature aging and skin cancer, it reaches you even when you’re trying to avoid it – penetrating clouds and glass, and bouncing off of snow, water and sand. What’s more, sun damage accumulates over the years, from prolonged outdoor exposure to simple activities like walking the dog, going from your car to the store and bringing in the mail.
COVER IT UP
Clothing can be a great barrier between your skin and the sun’s UV rays.The more you can cover up, the better. Throw on a hat too, to make sure you protect your eyes, face, ears, and neck. Some sunglasses come with built in UV protection, and so do some clothes. Look on clothes for UPF (the ultraviolet protection factor).
PLAY IN THE SHADE
Try to stay in the shade whenever you can, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. That’s when the sun is at its peak intensity. Remember that some UV rays can still get to your skin even if you’re in the shade, so make sure you’re taking other precautions too.
KNOW YOUR SUNSCREENS
Sunscreen comes in a ton of different varieties, from spray-on to sticks, and it might take some time to figure out what kind you like best. It doesn’t matter what style you pick, as long as you use it every day. It’s also important to make sure you take a look at the sunscreen’s SPF (sun protection factor).
SHIELD THE LITTLE ONES
In infants’ first six months, it’s best to keep them completely out of the sun instead of using sunscreen on their sensitive skin. Covering them up as much as possible with clothes, hats, and sunglasses. Once they’re older than six months, make sure to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
LOOK OUT FOR WINDOWS
The glass in your house or car blocks out UVB rays pretty well. However, it allows UVA rays through. That’s why it’s important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing and eyewewar, even when you’re in the car. The windows on airplanes, buses, and trains let UVA rays through too.
SAY NO TO TANNING BEDS
Using a tanning bed before the age of 35 raises the chance of getting all skin cancers, including melanoma, by 75 percent. Even though some states have laws prohibiting people under a certain age from tanning, or requiring parental consent, not all do. Tanning in the real sun isn’t better than a bed, either. It’s best to just say no.
EARLY DETECTION
The strongest defense against the sun is using sun protection from as early an age as possible. Learn about the risks, protect your skin, and learn what signs to look for to make sure you can stay healthy. Keep an eye out for anything unusual.