As the summer is now here, the team at Lifetime Internal Medicine wanted to share some tips on preparing for and protecting your skin from the summer sun!
Overexposure to the sun can cause damage like premature aging, pigmentation changes, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Most skin cancer is caused by too much exposure to UV light. Did you know that UV rays can cause skin damage in as little as 15 min?
Here are some tips we hope you find helpful:
- When outside, find shade. Wear a wide brimmed hat made from tightly woven material and consider wearing protective clothing. Use an umbrella or find shelter when outside for extended periods. Even when in the shade, protect your skin with sunscreen and clothing, as some clothing are even designated to specifically provide UV protection.
- Everyone of all skin tones needs to use sunscreen. The only type of sunscreen that works is one that you actually wear! Wear sunscreen every single day, even if it is overcast. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. For UVA rays, think “A” for aging and “B” for burns. SPF stands for sun protection factor. SPF 30 filters or blocks 97% of UV rays coming from the sun, so generally speaking, higher SPF numbers are not offering much higher protection.
- What is the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
- Chemical sunscreens, which include oxybenzone and avobenzone, are absorbed in the skin and reflect UV radiation away like heat. They are also absorbed into the bloodstream, and we don’t have long term data about the risks of that. Chemical sunscreen should be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow absorption into the skin. You should warm up the physical sunscreen in your hands before applying it to your face to help with distribution of the products. Sprays lead to uneven distribution so they are not recommended.
- Physical or mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They stay on the surface of the skin and physically bounce or block the UV rays. They can feel chalky and leave a whitish cast to the skin. They are better for people with sensitive skin and they likely do not enter the bloodstream. They are better for coral reefs and marine life.
- How much sunscreen do you need? Generally, a shot glass full for the whole body, and a teaspoon for the face is adequate. Make sure to reapply it every two hours, or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Bottom line – apply it liberally and often. Make sure to check the expiration date and toss if it has expired. The shelf life is typically 3 years, but it could be less if exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Also, if the contents of the sunscreen seemed to have changed color, have an unusual smell, changed texture, etc, this could indicate it is time to toss and get a new one. Don’t forget to get help to apply to hard to reach areas.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from both the UVA and UVB rays. Short term sun damage can include corneal sunburn (photokeratitis) and retinal damage (retinopathy.) Long term exposure and damage can increase risk for cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (growth on the eye.) Sunglasses will also protect the sensitive skin around the eyes.
- Avoid direct sun exposure during the peak hours of the day (10 am – 4 pm). This is when the sun is the most intense.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.
- If you do get burned, use aloe vera gel or cooling moisturizers to soothe sunburned skin. For some patients, aloe can be drying to the skin, so make sure to moisturize. You can also try a topical anesthetic cream to help with the pain
- Follow a healthy lifestyle – avoid tanning beds and don’t smoke, as smoking damages the collagen and elastin in your skin. In general, your skin will appreciate gentle, mild soaps and being well moisturized. Also eating a healthy, balanced diet and reducing stress can have positive impacts on your skin.
- And finally, do regular skin checks, and make sure to see your primary care physician and/or dermatologist if you see any moles, freckles, or spots that appear to be growing or appear concerning.
Remember, taking care of your skin is so important especially in the summer months, but truly all year round. Wishing everyone a safe and healthy summer!
The Team at Lifetime Internal Medicine
REFERENCES:
www.cdc.gov
Hopkinsmedicine.org
American Academy of Dermatology
NPR Life Kit: Health
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https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sun-safety
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection