The weather is starting to warm up, and you know what that means: more time outside!
As the rising temperatures beckon us outdoors, seasonal allergies might be mostly over, but there are other things to worry about. For instance, less than half of older adults protect their skin from the sun when outside for an hour or more on a warm, sunny day.
The problem? Forgoing sun protection can significantly raise anyone’s risk of getting skin cancer.
June is Ultraviolet Safety Month – a campaign launched by the American Academy of Dermatology to educate the public about skin cancer detection and prevention. Now’s the perfect time to talk about how we protect ourselves from harmful rays, especially as we enter the long days of summer.
From adequate SPF to protective clothing, here’s what you need to consider.
But First: How Can UV Be Dangerous?
UV (ultraviolet) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It’s true that UV radiation is essential for life on Earth – it helps our bodies produce vitamin D and is crucial to our mental and physical well-being.
However, overexposure to UV radiation can pose significant risks.
UV radiation is classified into three types based on wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC radiation is absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not reach the surface, so it’s not a concern for sun exposure. Both UVA and UVB radiation can penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere and reach our skin, causing actual damage.
UVB radiation primarily affects the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and is the main cause of sunburn. Prolonged exposure to UVB radiation can lead to various short-term and long-term health effects, including sunburn, premature aging (such as wrinkles and age spots), and an increased risk of skin cancer.
UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin (dermis) and is associated with longer-term damage. While UVA radiation doesn’t cause sunburn as quickly as UVB radiation, it can still contribute to skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. UVA radiation can also penetrate through glass, making it a concern even when indoors or in shaded areas.
Sun & Skin Cancer
Excessive exposure to UV radiation of any kind can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can result in skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, in particular, is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
UV radiation can also suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to defend against skin cancer and other diseases.
To highlight this point, the Skin Cancer Foundation has reported that indoor tanning (direct exposure to UV radiation) increases the risk of developing life-threatening melanoma by a staggering 75% if you start using tanning beds before the age of 35.
We might not all be jumping in tanning beds this year, but many of us will still spend time in the sun, and we need to protect ourselves accordingly.
The bottom line: we know that increased, unprotected sun exposure is highly correlated with increased risks of skin cancer. Additionally, skin damage from UV exposure is cumulative – which means that ongoing protection matters.
The Purpose of Sunscreen
Sunscreen serves as our first line of defense against the sun’s harmful rays, acting as a protective barrier for our skin. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it should be a part of our daily routine to address concerns about sunburns, skin cancer, and premature aging.
When selecting a sunscreen, opt for a broad-spectrum formula that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. We also recommend looking for mineral-based products, such as zinc sunscreens, that are better for us and the planet.
Understanding Sunscreen SPF Ratings
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating of a sunscreen indicates its effectiveness in blocking UVB rays. More specifically, it measures the amount of time it takes for UVB rays to cause sunburn on protected skin compared to unprotected skin.
Contrary to popular belief, a higher sun protection factor doesn’t equate to impenetrable protection. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
Although the difference may seem minimal, every percentage point matters when it comes to safeguarding your skin. That’s why we recommend choosing a high-SPF sunscreen, especially when planning to spend more than a couple of hours in direct sunlight.
Tips for Effective Sunscreen Application
Regardless of the sun protection factor, you should apply sunscreen generously and reapply regularly. Remember that sweat and water can compromise its effectiveness, so slather on some more after swimming or exercising – even if it’s a water-resistant sunscreen!
Begin by applying sunscreen liberally to all exposed areas of skin, ensuring complete coverage from head to toe. Don’t overlook commonly forgotten areas such as the ears, neck, tops of feet, and the back of your hands.
Also, it’s always best to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow the formula to absorb into the skin fully.
Your Ultimate Checklist for Sun Protection
To ensure you’re adequately defended from sun damage, follow these essential sun safety tips:
- Choose a broad-spectrum protection sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin areas.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather, to prevent dehydration and support healthy skin.
To be extra safe, you should also perform regular skin checks for any unusual moles, growths, or changes in your skin. If you notice anything new or concerning, consult a dermatologist.
In Summary
As we embrace the joys of summer, let’s not forget the importance of prioritizing UV safety. This should be a non-negotiable part of our daily routine, ensuring our skin remains healthy and radiant – and dramatically lowering our skin cancer risk.
Visit Your Local Klingensmith’s for UV Protection
Klingensmith’s Drug Stores carry everything you need to stay healthy and covered this summer. From Katydid and Catalina Panama hats to sunglasses and sunscreens of all SPF levels, our stores are fully stocked with sun protection in mind.
Drop by to pick up some protective clothing or sunblock for your exposed skin. Have questions? Feel free to ask our knowledgeable staff!
