Five Ways to Protect Your Skin from UV Rays

Just because summer is coming to an end doesn’t mean that skin care isn’t as important. Learn how to protect your skin in today’s blog.

A little sunshine goes a long way. After all, Vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorous and helps facilitate immune function.

But beyond the health benefits of sunshine, there are health risks, too. In fact, the damaging effects of the sun can lead to dangerous skin conditions such as melanoma.

In today’s blog, we’re offering you five summer skin care tips to help protect you and your elderly loved one from dangerous sun exposure.

  1. It’s important to be aware of the medications you are taking. Always check the labels for information about how the medicine can affect the body when you are exposed to sunlight. Some medications advise the patient to stay out of the sun. If you are unsure about the medication you are taking, contact your primary care physician.
  2. Before heading outside, be sure to apply sunblock. About 30 minutes prior to leaving, you should apply sunscreen that’s water-resistant, broad-spectrum, and protects against ultraviolet short-waves (UVA) and ultraviolet long-waves (UVB). A version with SPF 30 or higher is recommended. Remember to reapply frequently, preferably every two to three hours, and always after swimming or sweating.
  3. The intensity of the sun’s rays varies throughout the day. It’s for this reason that the elderly in particular should avoid going outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is when the midday sun is at its strongest. If you are, however, outside during that time span, seek shade and limit sun exposure as much as possible.
  4. Be sure to dress appropriately. Protecting yourself from the sun doesn’t mean that you have to stay indoors. If you plan to be outside, protective clothing such as loose, lightweight pants and a long-sleeved shirt are the best options for UV protection. Another article of clothing that can help protect from the sun’s damaging rays is a wide-brimmed hat.
  5. Dry skin can play a role in a person’s susceptibility to sunburn. As a person ages, the skin becomes prone to dryness, which can in turn be made worse by sun damage. Keep skin hydrated with lotions and creams. A lotion with UV protection is also recommended.

If you’d like to learn more about how to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, contact your primary care physician.

Sources:

https://www.agingcare.com/Articles/Protecting-Senior-Skin-from-the-Summer-Sun-147114.htm

Scroll to Top
X