The sun emits invisible ultraviolet rays. Even though it has many health benefits including the creation of Vitamin D, it can also lead to serious health risks such as sunburn or skin cancer. Based on the wavelengths UV radiation is classified into three types:
ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), and ultraviolet C (UVC). Both UVA and UVB can damage health. Here’s what you need to know about sun safety and protecting your skin.
Best Ways to Protect Yourself from UV Rays
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen lotion contains ingredients that will block the UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen’s effectiveness is evaluated by its sun protection factor (SPF). The higher the number greater the protection from UV rays. Sunscreen containing SPF 15 can block 93% of UV rays, meanwhile, sunscreen with SPF 30 can block 97% UV rays.
The UVA rays can cause premature aging and skin cancer. UVB rays damage the skin and cause skin burns.
By applying sunscreen, you can maximize protection. If sunscreen wears off apply again.
While purchasing sunscreen prefer the one that offers an SPF of 15 or more. It will be marked as a broad spectrum to protect from UVA and UVB rays. You may need a water-resistant sunscreen if you sweat a lot.
Wear the Right Outfit
Wearing long pants, skirts, and light-fabricated long-sleeved shirts protects you from UV rays.
Tightly woven fabrics will provide the best protection. Prefer clothes made from polyester or denim; they block UV rays. A wet T-shirt provides less UV protection than a dry one. Dark-shaded colors protect more than lighter ones.
Some cloth certified under international standards is specially manufactured to provide UV protection.
Wear a Hat
For more protection wear a wide-brim hat that will cover your face, ear, and back of your neck. A firmly woven fabric such as canvas provides the best protection against UV rays.
Don’t wear a straw hat with holes where the sunlight passes through. Try wearing a darker hat which may protect from UV rays. If you wear a small size cap you should cover the exposed skin by weaning a cloth or applying sunscreen.
Find a Shady Spot
Staying under an umbrella or tree or other shelter can reduce the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Even if you are out for a picnic, stay under an umbrella or shelter. On a beach relax under a large umbrella, and prefer a shaded sidewalk on the streets.
However, one of the best ways of skin protection is to wear sunscreen even when you are in a shade.
Sunglass to Protect Your Eyes
Sunglasses help see better in the sun. It also protects your eyes from UV rays and developing cataracts. Mainly sunglass protects the tender skin around the eyes from sun exposure. It offers the best protection by blocking UVA and UVB rays. Before buying the glasses ensure that block harmful rays. Most sunglasses in the USA are made to meet this standard.
Too much sun exposure leads to numerous skin issues. Without protection, the skin will get damaged in 15 mins. So, whenever you step outside apply sunscreen lotion and follow precautions to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.
