Everyone is aware of the risk that overexposure to the sun's radiation can carry. In addition to causing skin cancer, excessive ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can accelerate skin aging by damaging collagen and lead to cataract formation in the eyes. There are a number of simple sun protection steps you can take to minimize your exposure to excessive UVR from the sun.
In as short a time as fifteen minutes, your skin can experience damage from UVR. You should always wear sunscreen when you venture outdoors, even on cool or cloudy days. It should be applied at least twenty minutes prior to sun exposure to give your skin time to absorb the product. Most sunscreens and sunblock work by either absorbing, reflecting, or scattering sunlight. Those that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient effectively work by creating a layer on the skin that repels or reflects the UVR away from the skin. You should not use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) lower than 15. Make sure to always check your sunscreen's expiration date and keep reapplying it after you swim, exert yourself and sweat, or every two hours that you are out in the sun.
Keeping as much of the skin covered as possible is one of the best routes to protecting your skin while out in the sun. Technological developments have also allowed for the creation of fabrics that actually block anywhere from 20 to 98% of UVR, and they are used in specialized sun protective wear, including sun protective swimwear. Wearing hats or caps that offer full coverage of the face, neck, and ears is also important. Sunglasses that protect from both UVA and UVB should be worn, and wrap around styles offer more shielding from UVR.
Avoid being out in the sun when UVR is at its strongest. This time generally falls between 10am and 2pm, and if you do not need to be out in the sun for long periods of time, it is best to stay out of the sun. When you do have to be out during that peak period, try to stay in the shade as much as possible to reduce your risk. Protective clothing and sunscreen is still important to have in the shade.
Remember that skin cancer and other negative consequences of too much UVR are largely preventable if you follow these easy, breezy steps!
Gorgeous sun protective swimwear that appeals to the fashion savvy--being sun smart has never looked this good!
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