Winter Into Spring Sun Block

 Don’t Forget the Sun Block!

The sun’s damaging rays can harm the skin during the winter months. The harmful UVB rays can pass through window glass and are responsible for photo aging and certain skin cancers. Sun damage begins during childhood and is cumulative. We are at increased risk of sun damage during certain situations such as, in the snow and on the beach do to reflection of the sun’s rays, in high altitudes, on cloudy days and between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM.

  Photo by Tiffany Bui from Pexels

There are many people in high-risk groups for sun damage. These groups include children and the elderly, people with fair skin, people with genetic or metabolic disorders, people on certain medication such as Tetracycline, Minocycline and Retin A, as well as smokers. Sun lamps and tanning booths emit both UVA and UVB light and can increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging of the skin.

The best ways to help prevent sun damage is to avoid long exposures during the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM. It is important to use sun blocks and reapply if out for a prolonged period of time or if it has been washed off. An SPF of 30 will give 97% protection for UVB rays. Check for the expiration dates on sun blocks and, if uncertain, throw them away and buy new product. Wearing light clothing and the use of umbrellas can also help limit sun exposure. The bottom line is don’t forget sun block during the winter! Go out and have fun, but limit the damaging sun exposure.

For more information http://www.docotorgoodskin.com

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