We all love the feeling of being sun-kissed. However, you might not realize that our favorite summer pastime could actually be silently sabotaging our skin. That’s the sun effect on skin. Let's talk about the “how” and “what” of sun safety and how you can protect your skin while having fun outdoors.
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The Sneaky Sun Attack on Your Skin
Those golden rays are jammed with ultraviolet radiation. When they hit your skin, it's like a tiny, invisible war is waged. In the short term, you might end up with a rosy glow or a painful burn to remind you to use sunscreen. But in the long term, it's what's happening underneath the skin that's really doing the harm.
Repeated sun exposure breaks down collagen and elastin — the proteins that keep your skin plump and youthful in appearance. So, the effects of sun on the skin can be quite damaging with too much exposure. That's when those wrinkles and age spots, and that leathery texture, start to appear. Let’s not forget to mention the biggest concern of them all: skin cancer.
Sunscreen Is Your Skin's Secret Weapon
Think of sunscreen like your skin's personal bodyguard. It creates a protective shield against those harmful UV rays. But not all sunscreens are created equal. You want to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays — the dynamic duo of skin damage. Keep in mind that a higher SPF doesn't necessarily offer better protection; it just lasts a bit longer.
Sun Safety Is About More Than Just Sunscreen
Slathering on sunscreen is one step in protecting yourself, but it isn't the only action you can take. Peak sun hours are from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and require you to take shade. Wearing protective hats, sunglasses, and clothing will always help protect your skin.
Of course, it is always beneficial to examine your skin from time to time for changes, such as new moles or those that look different than others. Early detection is the key to winning against skin cancer.
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Protecting Your Skin While Enjoying the Outdoors
There are a few methods to incorporate so that we can enjoy the warmth and sun while staying safe from possible side effects. Incorporation foods that are rich in antioxidants are a great way to start, as they will help fight off free radicals and toxins generated in the body by UV rays.
Hydration is also key — keeping your skin moisturized helps it stay flexible and strong. Incorporating after-sun skincare that contains aloe vera or chamomile can also help calm and rejuvenate the skin. In addition, drinking plenty of water and electrolytes will help flush the toxins and keep your skin hydrated.
When it comes to combating the effects of the sun on skin aging, it’s important to build healthy habits. These habits, when combined with the use of sunscreen on a regular basis, give us a chance to find a healthy middle ground in order to be able to enjoy all of the other perks of being outside.
