As summer approaches and jeans and turtlenecks are swapped for swimsuits and tank tops, it’s important to remember that protecting your skin against the sun’s harmful rays is the best way to prevent cancer and other skin-related diseases. The American Academy of Dermatology released this staggering statistic: one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. The sun’s rays have long-term effects, too. The National Institute on Aging credits prolonged sun exposure for wrinkles, dryness and age spots.
So, what exactly causes your skin to darken under the sunlight? The Skin Cancer Foundation explains that tanning is caused by the skin’s exposure to ultraviolet rays. When skin is exposed to these rays, cells called melanocytes produce the brown pigment melanin, which darkens the cells of the epidermis (skin). Ironically, the darkening of the skin isn’t to enhance your looks, it’s your body’s way of protecting you from further ultraviolet (UV) damage, including sunburn, freckles and cancer.
The most serious type of skin cancer is melanoma. This form of cancer starts in the melanocytes. “When people spend extended periods of time in the sun without proper skin protection, melanocytes can grow abnormally and become cancerous,” explains Lacrecia Foster, D.O., family practice physician on the medical staff at Houston Northwest Medical Center. “Warning signs include moles, open sores or crusty bumps. It’s important to become familiar with the marks on your skin and perform regular skin examinations. If you notice anything irregular, notify your doctor immediately.”
Unsafe sun exposure can have negative consequences. Knowing that you are the only one who can protect your skin should empower you to keep it safe. As the body’s largest organ, you should keep your skin healthy by wearing sunscreen, lip balm and protective clothing. WebMD provides these helpful tips on properly braving the elements.
· Apply sunscreen with a SPF 15 or higher at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Lather on enough so that it takes a full minute to rub in.
· If at the beach, spread at least 1 ounce – enough to fill a shot glass – on your face and entire body.
· If you swim, sweat or are outdoors for a long time, reapply every two hours. Also, choose a sunscreen that is water resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection.
· If possible, avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
“It is important to remember that it’s not just your skin that needs protecting,” adds Dr. Foster. “Excessive UV exposure also can damage your eyes, potentially causing cataracts and macular degeneration. Wearing sunglasses that offer UV 400 protection, which means the glasses block up to 400 nanometers of harmful UV light, can help protect your eyes.”