How to Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Anyone, regardless of skin color, can get skin cancer. Overexposure to the sun is the most preventable way to reduce your risk of all skin cancers, including melanoma, the most deadly form. Protecting your skin by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen are essential steps to avoid harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

How Does the Sun Damage the Skin?

Sunlight consists of harmful UV rays, which can damage your skin in different ways:

  • UVA rays: These rays penetrate deep into the skin and can lead to premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and age spots. UVA rays can also pass through windows, meaning exposure can happen even indoors or in a car.
  • UVB rays: Known as the “burning” rays, UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
  • UVC rays: The most dangerous of all, though thankfully they are blocked by the Earth’s ozone layer.

How Can I Protect My Skin from the Sun?

You can enjoy the sun while protecting your skin by following these tips:

  • Seek shade: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If your shadow appears shorter than you are, it’s time to seek shade.
  • Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses provide additional protection. Fabrics that are tightly woven and dark-colored offer better UV protection.
  • Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin. Remember to reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
  • Protect infants and children: Babies younger than six months should be kept out of direct sunlight. For older children, choose sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to irritate their skin.

What Happens if I Don’t Protect My Skin from the Sun?

Without protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, you can be at risk of:

  • Skin cancer: The most common cancers caused by sun exposure include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the deadliest form, melanoma.
  • Sunburn: Sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer and cause immediate discomfort.
  • Aging: UV exposure accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and a leathery texture.
  • Allergic reactions and other conditions: For some, sun exposure can trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing skin conditions, leading to bumps, hives, or blisters.

Additional Tips for Sun Protection

  • Avoid tanning beds: The UV light from tanning beds can cause skin cancer and speed up skin aging.
  • Get vitamin D safely: Consider a healthy diet or supplements to get your vitamin D instead of seeking the sun.
  • Check your skin regularly: Pay attention to any changes in your skin, such as new growths or sores that don’t heal. Early detection of skin cancer is key to successful treatment.