August is known for bringing new levels of heat and humidity. While it can be tempting to use the temperature as an excuse for beach days and sunbathing, it’s important to protect your skin and keep yourself safe from harmful UV rays — after all, sunburn isn’t the worst that can happen.
Here’s everything you need to know about protecting yourself from the sun as well as dermatologist-recommended SPF products to help shield your skin.
Harmful Rays To Look Out For
There are two types of harmful sun UV rays: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays are longer and cause the skin to tan. Unfortunately, these rays also age skin cells and are linked to damage like premature wrinkles. UVA sun damage can be unexpected: You may not feel any pain or discomfort from sunburn, but your skin is still at risk. UVB rays, on the other hand, are shorter and have slightly more energy. These rays cause sunburns.
Both types do considerable damage and research proves a direct link to skin cancer.
While cancer is certainly the scariest and most significant outcome of harmful exposure, unprotected sun time can cause premature wrinkles, fine lines, brown spots, and congested skin.
Since all rays are harmful, limit your time in the sun during the hours between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun is the strongest and try to cover up as much as possible to limit the amount of skin showing. Accessories like hats and umbrellas are helpful for preventing the sun from touching your skin, and remember the shade is your friend.
The Different Types of SPF Sunscreen
SPF measures how much UV radiation it would take to sunburn the protected skin relative to the amount of UV radiation required to sunburn unprotected skin. As the SPF value increases, sunburn protection increases — thus making it important to stay adequately covered.
There are two primary types of sunscreen, physical and chemical.
Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s rays. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin and pre-existing conditions like melasma, eczema, or rosacea.
Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, absorbs into the skin and absorbs UV rays. Not only do chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin quicker, but they’re typically water-resistant, making them ideal for anyone active.
Whichever you choose, make sure that it’s at least SPF 30, and be sure to regularly reapply every 90 minutes if you plan on being in the sun for an extended period of time. Remember, no method is perfect, so it’s still best to limit your exposure whenever possible.
Find the Right Sunscreen For You
With so many factors to consider and understand, It can be tough to keep all of the information straight. At Skin Wellness Center we are able to recommend the best sunscreen for your skin type and provide you all the information you need to stay safe all year round.
Give us a call to feel safe and secure in the sun this summer: (727) 545-3376!