Here Comes the Sun...How to Protect Yourself!

Here Comes the Sun

When talking about the aging process and how well our skin endures the passing years it is important to realize that photo-aging, or in laypersons terms, exposure to the sun is the major extrinsic or preventable factor in how well we maintain a youthful appearance with the passing of years.

There is rarely an article on skin aging that doesn’t warn against sun exposure during mid-day when the sun’s rays wreak the most havoc. Living and loving the South Florida lifestyle makes staying out of the sun, simply impractical for sun-loving Floridians. Yet, it is important to know that the damage we do in our teens, 20’s and beyond will lurk around and become apparent as we age and the body’s natural ability to restore itself slows down.

Not only can sun damage result in advancing the appearance of aging, it may turn the joys of living in a great climate into increased risk of skin cancer.

Short of eliminating fun in the sun which is why most migrate from colder climates to live in Florida, it is more realistic to be reminded of a few precautions as summer fun begins.

Make sure your sun protection protects against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays do not burn but harden the elastin fibers that keep skin supple. UVB rays burn and can cause damage to DNA that can result in skin cancer.
Sun rays penetrate normal daytime clothing. Especially if you are at high risk for skin cancer, sun screens should be applied to areas of the body that are covered by clothing. There are companies that offer sun protective clothing lines that are attractive, lightweight and affordable.
Question whether cosmetic products with SPF provide adequate protection. Sun protection that exceeds casual exposure needs to be applied in an adequate amount and reapplied frequently while in the sun.
Be aware of whether any medication you are taking causes sensitivity to sun exposure. A few drug categories that may cause photosensitivity are: cardiovascular, chemotherapy, diuretics and hypoglycemic sulfonylureas. If in doubt, check with your pharmacist.
Alcohol found in perfumes and certain essential oils can cause skin to be more susceptible to sun exposure. It is best to limit these types of products to use in areas of the body that will not be exposed.
Look for a high quality sun protection product that contains Vitamin C. It will help minimize and fight damage. Another excellent ingredient in high quality products is Aloe Vera. It has long been regarded as a folk remedy for burns for good reason. It has excellent healing benefits as well as having superb moisturizing properties.
If you wind up with a burn, use a topical vitamin C product. Vitamin C has healing properties that can help reduce long term damage of sun exposure.
Keep fun in the sun safe for you and your loved ones.