Thursday, July 26, 2018

Protect Your Skin from the Sun


Now that we are in the middle of summer, it bears repeating that we need to wear sunscreen in order to protect our skin from sunburn, early skin aging and skin cancer.  Experts note that the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage our skin in as little as 15 minutes. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends everyone uses a water-resistance sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB ray) of SPF 30 or higher.  You need to wear it every day if you plan to be outside as the sun emits harmful UV rays year-round even on cloudy days. 

Along with wearing sunscreen, the AAD says to avoid being in the sun from 10 AM to 2 PM when rays are the strongest, and to wear protective clothing even in the shade.  Whenever possible, wear a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. To get optimal coverage from a hat, the brim should go all the way around and have at least a three-inch brim.  Also it should be made of a tight, synthetic weave without visible perforations.  Keep in mind you need to take extra precautions if you plan to be near water, sand, or snow as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, and can increase your chance of a sunburn.

To apply sunscreen properly, put on a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin.  Ask for help in hard to reach areas.  Furthermore check the sunscreen’s expiration date; typically sunscreen has a shelf life of no more than three years and is shorter if the product has been exposed to high temperatures.  Finally keep an eye on your skin, and if you notice any changes or itching or bleeding on your skin, see a board-certified dermatologist. Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself our unique approach to memory care.  

Source:  aad.org/media/stats/prevention-and-care/sunscreen-faqs

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