New Smyrna Beach Summer Sun Protection Tips

UVA or UVB rays of sunlight can penetrate the atmosphere to damage skin, eyes, your immune system and even cause cancer. The sun can burn and damage the skin year-round, but the summer months can be particularly harmful. Extended unprotected time in the sun can also contribute to skin discoloration, wrinkling and sagging.

That being said, don’t forget to wear your sunglasses, and there are some tips and facts that can help keep you safe from the summer sun. If you can, try to plan outdoor activities before 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m., since the summer sun is the most intense during the midday hours. Even if you do plan your outdoor activities at the safest times, it’s best to use sunscreen every time you head outdoors, and the sunscreen you choose may be more important than you think.

SPF products filter, reflect and absorb harmful sun rays. They also contain moisturizers to help avoid dry skin that can be caused by overexposure to the sun. When purchasing sunscreen, look for the words “broad spectrum” or “multi spectrum” on the label and always use 15 SPF or higher, although 30 is preferred. Additionally, Consumer Reports says that natural, mineral and organic sunscreens failed their proficiency test. They suggest sunscreens containing avobenzone and octocrylene.

Just remember that all is for naught if your sunscreen is not properly applied. The rule of thumb is to apply liberally and often…at least every two hours and always after swimming or sweating, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. It only takes one severe sunburn to potentially double the chance of getting melanoma later in life, so slather the sunscreen on you, your kids and the elderly, especially in the summer months when the sun’s rays are particularly harsh. Don’t forget those often missed spots, including the backs of knees, ears, around the eyes and the neck and scalp area!