Did you know? Skin is the largest organ of the body. Uvb rays cause sunburns, while uva rays penetrate the skin and can cause skin cancer.
Your skin is amazing! As the boundary between our insides and the outside world, it has a very important job to do. Luckily the number one way to care for and protect your skin is just to shield it from too much sun.
Sunshine on your skin feels wonderful, it’s true, but too much of a good thing can be destructive. From minor sun damage like painful sunburns, premature aging and wrinkles, to serious, even life-threatening forms of skin cancer, our skin and the sun have a delicate relationship. Great sunscreens are increasingly available in nontoxic, environmentally friendly formulations, making it easy to make sun safety a daily habit.
UVA VS UVB RADIATION
There are two main types of radiation that come from the sun, UVA and UVB rays. UVB radiation is the culprit behind that familiar red and blistering burn, while UVA radiation penetrates deep into the skin, where it can accelerate signs of aging and eventually lead to skin cancer. By the time UVB radiation has burnt the surface, UVA rays may have already damaged skin cells in deeper layers.
You might be familiar with sunscreens listing an “SPF” or sun protection factor. This number only refers to degree of protection against UVB rays. It’s important to choose sunscreens that block both UVB and UVA rays—products usually described as “broad spectrum protection” sunscreens.
ENVIRONMNTAL WORKING GROUP
Not all broad spectrum sunscreens work equally well, and many sunscreens, broad spectrum or not, contain ingredients which are considered endocrine disruptors. Fortunately, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) provides a Guide to Sunscreens which rates the safety and efficacy of about 1,700 skin care products that are marketed as having sun protection benefits.
In fact, EWG has a great collection of information, articles and resources to help you make good decisions about sun exposure. For example, did you know that you should use sunscreen every day, even on overcast days or while you’re traveling by car? Car windows do not block the sun’s radiation. Or that kids are especially vulnerable to sun? Studies show that just a few blistering sunburns in childhood can double a person’s chances of developing skin cancer in adulthood. Check out their Sun Safety Campaign for more tips like these.
SUNGLASSES
And don’t forget your sunglasses! Not only will you look cool, glasses with UV protection shield your eyes and surrounding skin, which are vulnerable to damage. UV rays peak at midday, so plan your time in the sun for early morning or late afternoon.
SKIN CHECKS!
Finally, check your skin regularly for new or changing moles or spots, and ask your primary care physician how often you should see a dermatologist for professional skin cancer screenings.
Article courtesy of strongertogether.coop
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