The summer sun feels therapeutic to many, but it also has its pitfalls. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin and even cause skin cancer.
Dermatologist Douglass Forsha, MD, and his team at Jordan Valley Dermatology Center in South Jordan, Utah, are committed to keeping you safe and healthy. We provide skin cancer screenings, anti-aging treatments like Botox® injections, and microneedling treatments with and without platelet-rich plasma to improve the tone and texture of your skin.
Although your skin soon feels normal again after a sunburn, the sun damage is dangerous nonetheless. In addition to the burned cells, the genetic material in those and in other cells is also damaged. This is stored in the cell's DNA. As skin cells divide, existing DNA damage is passed on to new cells. Too much DNA damage can lead to skin cancer. Here are five ways to avoid sun damage this summer.
Sun damage to DNA occurs when your skin is sunburned but damage also occurs without burning the skin. Good sun protection for the skin is essential, even if you’re already tan or are only going to be in the sun for a short time.
Prepare for beach day by focusing on your inner health. Vitamin B may help your body resist cancerous growth developments. B vitamins are associated with lowering the risk of melanoma. Vitamin A, E, and C are important in processes such as cell renewal in the skin. In addition, antioxidants help your body break down harmful free radicals caused by sun exposure. Choosing a healthy, balanced diet helps keep your skin healthy and safe.
Your body's own protective system is insufficient in most situations to prevent skin damage from the sun. Both sunscreen and sunblock are effective forms of sun protection. We don’t recommend one over the other — just make sure the formulation suits your skin type and that it has broad spectrum protection to guard against both UVA and UVB rays. SPF of 30 should be a minimum rating.
Cover all exposed areas with a high-quality sunscreen or sunblock, and frequently reapply during more prolonged outdoor activities, generally, every 80 minutes. Don't forget that even the best sun protection factor reaches its limits when you bask excessively in the blazing midday sun.
A hat is so much more than your outfit’s finishing touch. A big, wide-brimmed hat protects your face from the sun's rays. Staying in shaded areas and avoiding direct sunlight can also curb unsightly consequences such as age spots and wrinkles.
Your summer wardrobe should be not only stylish but also sun-protective. Clothing should be breathable, as the combination of heat and damp sweat can promote various irritations on the skin. Wear sunglasses that reliably protect your eyes from UV light.
Always pay attention to your skin while in the sun. Does the surface feel hot? Does your skin look red? Do you feel a slight burning sensation? If so, then it's time for a break inside or in the shade. It’s a good idea to regularly inspect your skin throughout the year so that you can spot any new areas of concern.
Call Jordan Valley Dermatology Center or send us a secure message today to discuss ways to keep your skin healthy.
