How Can I Protect My Skin from Sun Damage?
The best way to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays is to apply on broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Broad spectrum sunscreen contains ingredients that block UVA and UVB rays, both of which can damage skin.
How Can I Protect My Skin from the Sun Naturally?
If you’re going to be out in the sun, you can protect your skin by wearing dark-colored clothing that covers your arms and legs. Light, knit clothing doesn’t give much sun protection. Other natural ways to protect yourself from the sun include:
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat
- Wearing UV-resistant sunglasses
- Avoiding prolonged sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Checking your weather app for the day’s UV rating. Avoid prolonged sun exposure if the rating is five or above
Why Should I Protect My Skin from the Sun?
There are two important reasons to protect your skin from the sun- skin cancer and premature aging. The sun’s rays contain two types of radiation:
Ultraviolet A- Causes premature aging and squamous or basal cell carcinoma
Ultraviolet B- Causes sunburn and the more dangerous form of skin cancer called melanoma
Remember that these rays are present even on cloudy days, so it’s important to get in the habit of wearing sunscreen every day.
What Are the Best Ways to Protect My Skin from the Sun?
Wearing sunscreen on all exposed areas of your skin is the best way to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Choose a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher
- Wear lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Wear facial moisturizers and makeup formulated with SPF protection
- Apply your sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure
- Use about one ounce of sunscreen during each application
- Reapply your sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating
- Make sure your sunscreen is not expired
- Use a sunblock like zinc oxide or titanium oxide on your nose, forehead, shoulders, or other areas that burn easily
- Avoid using tanning beds
Does Keratin Protect Skin from UV Light?
Keratin is a protein that helps shield the skin from bacteria and chemicals including UV. It’s also vital for renewing skin cells. Eat a diet rich in keratin-containing proteins to keep your skin healthy and elastic. You’ll still need to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
How Does Melanin Protect the Skin from UV Light?
Melanin is a pigment produced by the skin that determines our skin tone and eye color. It also effectively absorbs UV light and inhibits its ability to damage healthy skin cells. Although those with more melanin are less likely to get skin cancer, the risk is still there and you should wear sunscreen daily.
Does Aloe Vera Gel Protect Skin from the Sun?
Aloe Vera is helpful in soothing a sunburn by cooling and moisturizing burned skin. However, aloe vera doesn’t offer protection against the sun. It only offers relief after you get a sunburn, so make sure you avoid a sunburn in the first place by using sunscreen.
To learn more about protecting your skin from the sun, make an appointment today with Hollywood Dermatology & Cosmetic Specialists in South Florida. Our medical staff can provide the best advice to help protect your skin.
