Enjoying the outdoors is one of life’s simple pleasures. Many people love the warm sun, especially during the summer months. The sun’s rays make us feel good, and in the short term sun exposure may lead us to believe that we have a “healthy” glow.
However, our love affair is not a two-way street. Exposure to the sun causes premature signs of aging (such as wrinkles and age spots) and, more importantly, is the number one cause of skin cancer.
In fact, sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think of as a normal part of aging. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light damages the fibers in the skin called elastin. When these fibers breakdown, the skin begins to sag, stretch, and lose its ability to go back into place after stretching.
The skin also bruises and tears more easily, taking longer to heal. So while sun damage to the skin may not be apparent when you are young, it will definitely show later in life.
Exposure to the sun cases the following changes in your skin:
- Precancerous and cancerous lesions, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma
- Benign tumors
- Fine and course wrinkles
- Freckles
- Discolored areas of the skin, called mottled pigmentation
- A yellow discoloration of the skin
- Dilation of small blood vessels under the skin
Unfortunately, nothing can completely undo sun damage, although the skin can sometimes repair itself. This means that it’s never too late to begin protecting yourself from the sun.
Follow these steps to help prevent sun-related skin problems:
- Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater 30 minutes before sun exposure and every few hours thereafter.
- Select a daily moisturizer, foundation, and contact lenses that offer UV protection.
- Wear sunglasses with total UV protection.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, and pants. Clothing with a built-in SPF is available for extra protection.
- Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible during peak UV radiation hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Perform skin self-exams regularly to become familiar with existing growths and to notice any changes or new growths.
- 80% of a person’s lifetime sun exposure is acquired before age 18. As a parent, be a good role model and foster skin cancer prevention habits in your child. Diligently use protective sunscreen, clothing, and hats when children are young and rely on you.
- Watch reflective rays from water sources (pools, lakes, oceans, etc.) and beach sand.
- Don’t forget to protect yourself and children with sunscreen and clothing while in the car.
- Avoid all tanning beds.
For more information on sun safety, please contact the Office of Health and Wellness Education at wellness@cabrini.edu.