Sunlight does a lot of good for your body. Sunlight helps maintain healthy vitamin D levels, enhances mood, and boosts immunity. Unfortunately, sunlight may be harsh on the skin if you are not careful. Excessive sunlight exposure may result in sunspots and premature aging. Besides, sunlight exposure places you at risk of developing skin cancer.
The best way to protect the skin is to incorporate sun protection habits into your everyday routine. However, if your skin already shows signs of sun damage Fort Worth, there are ways to reverse some of these issues. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Select the Right Type of Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a great way to reduce your risk of skin cancer and early aging signs caused by sun damage. Apart from newborns, everybody should wear sunscreen anytime they are outdoors. When selecting a sunscreen, it is important to look at several key elements, like a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more, a broad-spectrum option, and one that is water-resistant.
However, it is important to note that although sunscreen may be water-resistance, it is not sweatproof or waterproof. Therefore, you should often reapply, particularly if you are sweating or swimming.
2. Apply Sunscreen Regularly
How you apply sunscreen determines its effectiveness. Skin specialists advise individuals to apply sunscreen several minutes before subjecting their skin to the sun to allow it to take in the sunscreen effectively.
After applying, wait several minutes to avoid accidentally wiping off the sunscreen. You may also reduce the risk of sunburn by reapplying after some hours or immediately after you are done swimming.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
Covering up with clothing is also an excellent way to reduce exposure to ultraviolet rays, but various sorts of clothing provide different protection levels. The clothing types that provide the most protection include dry, thicker fabrics and darker colors. Numerous clothing brands also make lightweight, comfortable tops and bottoms that protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
4. Cover Your Head with a Wide-Brimmed Hat
Hats with brims several inches in diameter are great at reducing your face’s exposure to ultraviolet rays. Baseball caps and other hats with narrower brims might not protect all areas on your face that might be exposed to the sun, such as your nose, neck, and ears.
5. Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses are vital in protecting the eyes and surrounding skin from the sun. Unfortunately, it is difficult to determine how well a pair of sunglasses may protect you from sunlight simply by examining the color of the lenses. Rather, choose sunglasses labeled with a UV protection factor (UPF). A greater number implies more protection from ultraviolet rays.
6. Seek Shade Whenever Possible
Remaining under shade could be a great way to stay outside whilst reducing your UV exposure. Whether you find shelter under a tree or erect a tent at the beach, it is crucial to seek shade, particularly during the sun’s peak hours. You can carry an umbrella or a hat for toddlers who should avoid unnecessary sunlight exposure.
Sunlight is by far beneficial for your body, but too much exposure can lead to sun damage and the risk of skin conditions like cancer. However, the danger of sun damage does not mean you should remain indoors altogether. Being cautious and incorporating the tips highlighted above can help reduce your exposure.
Nonetheless, despite the best measures, you may sometimes experience sunburns or other signs of sun damage. Although most of these concerns are mild to moderate and easily treatable with creams and lotions, you should see a skin specialist if your issue is severe.