Protection From the Sun's Harmful Rays

By Karen Clarke-Bennett, DO

A Better You

. http://abetteryoumedispa.com/

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Protection From the Sun's Harmful Rays

It doesn't matter if you're young or old, man or woman, famous or not. Every single person should be doing this everyday if they want to look young and stay safe Put sunscreen on!

Recent polls reveal that only 31% of women in the United States put sunscreen on everyday.

What many do not realize is that it doesn't matter if you work in an office and hardly see the sun each day most people are exposed to about 14 hours of casual UV exposure every week.

Think you don't need sunscreen because your skin is naturally dark? One study found melanoma in advanced stages at the time of diagnosis in 18% of Hispanics and 26% of African Americans, compared to 12% of Caucasians.

Again, we all should be wearing sunscreen.

Even with that trendy fedora, you're probably still missing your noggin. For the ladies, try a headscarf instead to prevent the sun from penetrating the holes in your straw hat. Or, even better, apply sunscreen to a Q-tip to get your hairline and exposed parts of your scalp.

What Sunscreen Should I Use?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone use sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays), SPF 30, and water resistant.

When Should I Use Sunscreen?

Every day. The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays year round. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin. On a cloudy day, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can pass through the clouds. Snow and sand increase the need for sunscreen. Snow reflects 80% of the sun's rays, and sand reflects 25% of the sun's rays.

How Much Sunscreen Should I Use, and How Often Should I Apply It?

Use enough sunscreen to generously coat all skin that will not be covered by clothing. Ask yourself, “Will my face, ears, arms, or hands be covered by clothing?” If not, apply sunscreen.

What Type Of Sunscreen Should I Use?

Available sunscreen options include lotions, creams, gels, ointments, wax sticks and sprays.

Creams are best for dry skin and the face.

Gels are good for hairy areas, such as the scalp or male chest.

Sticks are good to use around the eyes.

Sprays are easy to apply to children. Make sure to use enough to cover the entire surface area thoroughly, and do not inhale them.

There also are sunscreens made for specific purposes, such as for sensitive skin and babies.

Be sure to apply it generously to achieve the UV protection indicated on the product label.

Information in this article is from the American Academy of Dermatology.