Its almost summertime and we are already getting unseasonably warm weather. It’s time for fun outdoor activities, after being cooped up inside over the winter. It also means it’s time to think about preventing the effects of too much sun to our skin with important summer skin care. Vitamin D derived from the sun is great for us but too much of those UVA and UVB rays can do a lot of damage to our skin.
In my life, I have had a few sunburns, especially as a teen when we use to cover ourselves in baby oil I now call this “burn baby burn” Of course, much older and wiser now, most of us know this is not a good thing. A good summer skin care program care program will prevent a lot of problems later in life and help keep our skin youthful as we age.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the most common form of cancer is to the skin. More than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the U.S. — more than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer combined!
These are scary numbers, but the great thing is, you can prevent skin cancer! The key is to diagnose warning signs early So, what’s the best way protect our skin from damaging rays?
1.Cover up!
When you know you are going to be out in the direct sun light for a long time put on some light clothing that covers up your skin. A hat and sunglasses — are also very important.
2. Don’t spend a long time tanning, especially before you have a good base.
Thirty minutes a day of unprotected sun exposure is all we need to produce the amount of Vitamin D. After that make sure you use a good sunscreen. Start with a higher SPF like 50 and slowly work down to an SPF of 30. Consider self tanning products and spray tanning.
3. Be careful especially during peak hours
Which are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
4.Use a good moisturizer with an spf even when in the shade.
One I love is Sense’s self preserving Daytime Protective Emulsion , and if used as directed with other skin protection measures (see directions for use), decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. I also recommend purchasing a good foundation or foundation moisturizer containing sunscreen.
5. Examine your skin every month,
especially if you have fair skin or moles. If you see a mole change color or shape, be sure to see a doctor right away. Here are some great things to look for when inspecting your skin: http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information
6. Have your skin examined when you go for your yearly physical.
When you go in for a physical, have him or her check your skin, too. Your doctor will know what signs to look for to help treat or prevent any issues. Last time I saw my doctor he was able to prescribe a cream to fix a pre-cancerous spot on my arm. I was very thankful!
Your skin is the largest organ on your body, so take care of it. Protecting your skin will also keep you looking younger longer. If you fail to, you’ll age much faster and could have a lot more to contend with than just wrinkly skin.
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