According to the American Academy of Dermatology sun safety is critical for protecting skin against signs of aging and risk of developing cancer. Everyone should apply sunscreen any time they are exposed to the sun's rays because one in five Americans will receive a skin cancer diagnosis at some point. The AAD has helpful guidelines for safety in the sun.
Experts suggest finding shaded areas during 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. because of the strong rays the sun emits in that time period. When you are in areas with water, snow or sand it is important to exercise more precaution because the sun's rays are reflective. It is best to wear protective items such as pants, hats, sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts to block the rays when outside.
It is imperative to use a minimum of SPF 30, waterproof, Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB protection) sunscreen throughout the year. When applying sunscreen most people do not use enough. According to the AAD, it is recommended to use at least 1 oz. of sunscreen to cover parts of your body that will be exposed. 15 minutes before stepping outdoors, apply sunscreen in order for it to fully dry. Remember to reapply suncreen at least every 2 hours or after sweating and swimming since sunscreen tends to rub off. While it would seem that a higher SPF would protect against more harmful rays, the AAD assures that SPF 30 blocks 97 percent of the sun's rays. Higher SPF's may protect against more but no sunscreen can block all of the sun's rays. Remember to buy new sunscreen at least every three years and throw away bottles with past expiration dates. Sunscreen is not recommended for children under the age of 6 months, and infants also should not be exposed to the sun. If infants are outdoors, you can shield them from the rays by dressing them in protective clothing. When infants are fully covered, make sure that they do not get overheated and remember to give them liquids to keep them hydrated.
If you find yourself in a situation where you get sunburnt, there are a few ways to treat it. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking liquids and try taking a cool bath to reduce your overall body heat. You can use moisturizer or hydrocortisone cream to decrease skin dryness and discomfort from the sunburn.
Although Vitamin D is a critical vitamin for your health, the sun is not the only way to obtain this vitamin. Vitamin D supplements can be taken or added through food choices. There has been speculation as of late that sunscreen can be toxic, but the AAD assures that any side effects from sunscreen does not outweigh the risk of developing skin cancer.
While following all these safety regulations it is also important to do a self-check of one's body or see a dermatologist every year to see if there have been changes in skin, moles or bleeding.
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