Sources of UV radiation and how they damage your skin

July is UV Safety Month, and the team at Hollywood Dermatology and Cosmetic Specialists in South Florida are here to help you in learning more about how UV radiation impacts the skin and body. UV radiation is caused by exposure to natural or manmade UV rays. UV radiation sources can damage the skin, and can even contribute to the development of skin cancers, including basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. By understanding the sources, causes, and results of UV damaged skin, patients can take the steps to reverse the damage with a dermatologist and learn ways to protect their skin from further damage. 

What are some sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation? 

There are both natural and manmade sources of UV radiation that patients can be exposed to. Here are just a few of the ways in which exposure can happen: 

•         Sunlight exposure (most common)
•         Tanning beds and booths (sunlamps)
•         UV therapy (phototherapy treatments)
•         Blacklight lamps
•         Mercury-vapor lamps
•         Xenon arc lamps
•         Welding arcs

How do you know if you have UV radiation damage on the skin? 

Knowing the signs of UV radiation damage is key to speaking to a professional about reversal. Below are a couple of ways patients can know that they have UV damage to their skin and may need the assistance of a dermatologist to correct: 

•         Skin coloration changes/darkening
•         Sun spots/age spots
•         Increased freckling
•         Changes to existing moles on the skin

Ready to learn more about how to care for your skin and protect it from UV damage? 

July is UV Safety Month, and what a better time to focus on your skin’s health and appearance. If you are located in the area of South Florida and want to work with a team of professionals who can educate you on how to prevent and reverse sun damaged skin, connect with the team at Hollywood Dermatology and Cosmetic Specialists. We have a variety of doctors throughout our seven office locations, and patients can call the main line at (954) 961-1200 to request a consultation visit. We are here to help new and established patients in and around the community with our quality services.