Protect Your Skin, Now & for the Future
Summer is here, and that means sun, sweat, and lots of outdoor fun. While we all enjoy the warmth and vitamin D that the sun provides, it’s important to remember that overexposure can be harmful, particularly to young skin.
Why is Sun Safety Important?
Adolescents are at a higher risk of skin damage due to their active lifestyles and, often, their lack of awareness about the importance of sun protection. Long-term exposure to the sun without proper protection can lead to premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer. Tanning is also a sign of the skin reacting to potentially damaging UV radiation by producing additional pigmentation that provides it with some, but often not enough, protection against sunburn.
How to Stay Safe in the Sun
- Wear Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB protection) sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and more often is you swim, shower, or towel-dry your body.
- Seek Shade: Take breaks from the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
- Dress Wisely: Wear long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats made from tightly-woven fabric to protect your skin from the sun. There are clothes and accessories that are SPF-rated!
- Sunglasses are Essential: They protect your eyes from UV radiation, which can lead to cataracts later in life. Choose ones with “100% UV protection” on the label, as lens color does not mean better protection!
- Stay Hydrated: Always have water on hand to keep hydrated, especially in the hot sun.
Get Behind the Ears
When applying sunscreen, remember to cover ALL exposed areas. This includes your ears, nose, neck, hands, and feet! If you have fair or thin hair, wear a hat or applying sunscreen to your scalp.
Don’t Rely on Labels
No sunscreen completely blocks UV radiation, so other protections are needed, such as protective clothing, sunglasses, and staying in the shade.
No sunscreen is waterproof. Check the instructions on your sunscreen for information about its water resistance and reapplication instructions if you are sweating or going in the water.
Risk Factors for Sun Sensitivity
People of all skin colors are at risk for sunburn and other harmful effects of UV radiation, so always protect yourself!
Be especially careful if you have:
- Pale skin.
- Blond, red, or light brown hair.
- Been treated for skin cancer.
- A family member who has had skin cancer.
Some medications, including oral and topical prescriptions, can increase sun sensitivity (as well as the risk of dehydration). Speak with your doctor about sun-care precautions for any medications you are taking.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss sun and travel precautions. Let’s make this summer a safe and enjoyable one!
Wishing you a safe and healthy summer!
The Tribeca AYAM Team