Summer Is Here, Is Your Skin Safe?
It is officially summer in the Northern Hemisphere. For many seeking relief from long winters and isolation indoors, the outdoors beckons. Whether the beach our mountains are calling, be sure to be aware of the increased risk of harmful sun exposure this season.
Practicing sun safety is important year-round, as exposure to excess ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a threat to which we are all vulnerable, regardless of the season. However, the summer months bring additional considerations when it comes to your skin health. During the spring and summer months, UV rays tend to be stronger. The strength of UV rays depends on a host of factors, including proximity to the equator, altitude, and other conditions. Some UV rays are absorbed by the ozone layer, such as UVC rays. However, others, such as UVA and UVB, are not completely absorbed by the ozone layer. This means the skin is vulnerable to their excess exposure.
There are benefits to moderate UV exposure, including assisting the body in the production of vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential to the body; it aids bone development and helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorous from food. There are also some therapeutic applications of ultraviolet radiation. It has been used to treat jaundice, eczema, and other conditions. However, administration of therapeutic UV radiation is always under medical supervision.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 5–15 minutes of sun exposure 2–3 times per week. However, the amount of time needed under the sun is heavily dependent upon the time of day and your location in proximity to the equator. Be sure to always check your local UV index, and avoid sun exposure during peak times.
Over time, the cumulative exposure to harmful UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to skin cancer. Dr. James Goydos notes, “Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting humans and is one of the most preventable types of cancer through education and public awareness”. While this can be a daunting statement given the prevalence of skin cancer worldwide, it is also an empowering one. We can actively take steps to reduce our risk of harmful UV exposure and subsequently reduce our risk of developing skin cancer.
Being aware of the risks of harmful UV exposure is the first step towards mitigating those risks. Before heading outdoors, check your local daily UV index to understand the amount of exposure you may be exposed to in your region. Proximity to the equator, seasonality, time of day, altitude, and other environmental factors can impact UV intensity and risk of exposure. During times of peak UV, avoid being outdoors altogether, if possible. If this is not possible, seek shade and shield your skin.
Taking measures to safeguard your skin is essential to protect against excess UV exposure. This means not only wearing sunscreen, but protecting all exposed areas — lips and eyes included. Wear UV protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV protective sunglasses. SPF lip balm is another essential that can help protect your lips, too.
While it is common to associate sun safety solely with the summer, being mindful of your skincare is important every day. The sun is a mainstay in our daily lives, and ensuring we are reaping its benefits while reducing its risks is essential. The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and is vital to our health. It helps to protect our vital organs, and can be an indicator of both our internal and external health. Learning how to protect it is an investment that will always pay dividends.
Before you head outdoors, heed these recommendations to help reduce your risk of excess UV exposure. Your skin will thank you.
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Dr. James Goydos is an expert in melanoma research and specialist in surgical oncology with an M.D. from Rutgers University. With over 20 years of experience as a Professor, Surgeon, and Clinical Trial Lead, he is a leading expert in his field.
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