Summer is upon us and getting some Sun is a good thing! But like all good things, too much can be detrimental to the health of your skin.

Summer is finally here, and that means spending more time outdoors. While getting some sun can be great for your mood and overall health, too much sun exposure can be harmful to your skin. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of excess sun exposure and the appropriate measures you can take to protect your skin.

The Dangers of Excess Sun Exposure

Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to the DNA in your skin cells, leading to skin aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed each year. Excess sun exposure can also cause sunburn, which can lead to pain, peeling, and a greater risk of skin cancer in the future.

How to Protect Your Skin

1. Wear Sunscreen: One of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin is to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Make sure to reapply every two hours, especially if you are spending time in the water or sweating.
2. Wear Protective Clothing: Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, can help to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
3. Seek Shade: Try to avoid spending too much time in direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is at its strongest. Instead, seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or other structures.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to prevent dehydration, which can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a little sun exposure is great for your overall health, too much sun exposure can be harmful to your skin. By taking the appropriate measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, seeking shade, and staying hydrated, you can protect your skin and reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Sources:

• American Cancer Society. (2021). Skin Cancer Overview. https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/9557.00.pdf
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Protect Your Skin from the Sun. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-protection.htm
• Skin Cancer Foundation. (2021). Sun Protection. https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/