Protect Yourself from Sun Damage

Protection from the sun is so important these days, no matter what age you are.  Skin cancer numbers are on the rise, which is amazing to me, considering what information is available to us today.   So many products are out there to help protect us.  Sun damage can cause premature aging.  Skin can have an increased amount of wrinkles and look leathery.  If you are taking certain medications, did you know that your skin can have an increased adverse reaction to the sun?  Did you also know that some  anti-aging creams, lotions, and serums will also warn you against increased risk of sunburn?

 

I have read to plan your time outside either early in the day or late in the day.  The hours between 11am-2pm are your most at risk times for sun damage.  It’s a good idea to wear a hat that will shadow your face as well as wear clothing that is light and covers your skin.  I have seen gardeners who will put up a deck-size umbrella over the area where they are working.  This protects you from sun damage and keeps you a little cooler. 

 

While all those are good ideas, for me, I’m not a hat person.  Even in the winter, can’t get a hat on me.  And when I’m outside working or having fun – it’s warm. I’d prefer to wear short sleeves and shorts.  If you’re like me, then you’d better apply something that has a good SPF.  If you’re wearing sunscreen that does not mean that you can stay out longer in the sun. Sunscreens cannot protect against all of the sun’s radiation.  So many products are out there in the marketplace.  Sunscreens work either by absorbing the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin, or by reflecting the radiation.  How do you choose?  SPF 15, 30, 50; waterproof/sweatproof; disappearing color so you know that you have covered all areas of the body.  The list goes on.  It really depends on your preference.  I feel, for the most part, the higher the SPF the better.  Waterproof/sweatproof is good – no need to apply as often.  However, you shouldn’t forget to reapply periodically.  Also, finding a sunscreen that is PABA Free is extremely important.  Studies have shown that the ingredient PABA has a carcinogenic potential.  That means it can cause cancer.  Not good, considering we are wearing the sunscreen to protect us from skin cancer.  In addition, PABA can block pores, which could cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

 

For women, there are additional products to help protect us against sun damage.  You can purchase skin care creams and foundations that include an SPF.  These are good to use on a daily basis.  Remember though, read your ingredients.  You want to stay away from Paraben, which can also cause cancer.

 

Be good to your body and it will be good to you!

 

To research products’ ingredients to find out if they are good or hazardous, please try this site:                      

 

 http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/index.php