Tips for healthy summer skin
Summer sunshine is always welcome. While natural sunshine is a great source of Vitamin D, an important source for strong bones, but the potential effects of too much sun causing melanoma or skin cancer require careful balancing.
Dermatological studies have shown the more blistering sunburns you have, the greater your chance for developing skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the US. Steps to be taken to limit harmful exposure can include the following:
- Stay out of the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the rays of the sun are the strongest.
- Be aware of reflective surfaces such as water, cement and sand.
- Wear lip balm, sunglasses and broad-brimmed hats, along with tightly woven darker fabrics
- Apply sunscreen daily (at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors), liberally (a dosage of 1 ounce is usually advised) and regularly. See further descriptions below for more information about sunscreens.
Vitamin D is produced when skin is exposed to the sun, and it is very efficient. Staying in the sun without sunscreen for 5 - 10 minutes a day three times a week during mid-day can provide adequate sun exposure without a risk of skin cancer.
Sunscreens should be used to protect UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) harmful rays, known as broad-spectrum sunscreens. A key indication of the strength of sunscreen can be found in the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) found on the label of sunscreen products. The SPF numbers are indicative of the additional time you can spend in the sun, as compared to having no sunscreen protection. For example, a rating of SPF 20 means you can spend 20 times as much time in the sun as compared to the amount of time it would normally take to burn. Many sunscreens will also contain ingredients such as hydrating agents, anti-inflammatories, antioxidants such as Vitamin C and they should also be waterproof.
Be especially careful outside if you are taking medication, such as arthritis medications, that can increase your photosensitivity.
It is a good idea to have your dermatologist perform a full skin exam once every year. The head-to-toe exam, either using their trained naked eye or using a dermascope (a device to both magnify and detect small asymmetries), the doctor will look for moles or eruptions as well as other signs of skin problems, including changes from prior years.
