With summer quickly approaching, most of us will be making our way out to the pool, beach, lake, park, or some other fun outdoor destination more regularly. This increased outdoor activity also means increased exposure to the sun and the ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin damage. According to Dr. John Janik, leader of the Melanoma Multidisciplinary Clinic at Georgia Health Sciences University Cancer Center, “Prolonged sun exposure equals skin damage”. In today’s post, we’ll give you some quick and easy to follow tips to help you enjoy the sunny weather and keep your skin in pristine condition all summer long.
Tip #1 – Use Sunscreen! Even on cloudy or overcast days when you can’t see the sun’s rays, they are there and you can get burned if you don’t protect yourself. For maximum protection, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Also, be sure to reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours or after you’ve gone in the water.
Tip #2 – Stay in the shade in the middle of the day. Try to avoid the sun as much as possible during the peak, midday hours of 10am to 2pm. Stay in the shade if you can or if you must be in the sun during these hours, be sure to cover up with appropriate clothing (wide brim hat to protect head, neck and face) or wear an appropriate “broad spectrum” sunscreen.
Tip #3 – Double your protection in the water. Water and snow can reflect up to 85% of the harmful UV rays back up at you, so if you’re in the water, you need almost twice the protection than you do otherwise. Also, if you’re in the water, even waterproof sunscreens can wash off over time, so you need to reapply regularly.
For additional tips on protecting your skin this summer, click here.
If you or someone in your family experiences a sunburn requiring medical attention, stop by your neighborhood WellStreet Urgent Care and one of our board-certified physicians will provide you with excellent care, as well as treatment for your burn. This may include a prescribed regimen of aloe vera and a cold compress for mild burns and possibly a prescription cream for severe sunburns. Our caring medical staff will get you well on your way…fast!
