Whether you’re relaxing at the pool, driving to work, or shoveling snow on a winter day, you are exposed to the sun’s rays. These UV rays from the sun can result in sunburns, dark spots, wrinkles, or even skin cancer if you don’t use the proper protection. Here are ten reasons to wear sunscreen and keep yourself protected this summer!
1. WEAR SUNSCREEN TO HELP PREVENT CANCER
One of the most obvious reasons to wear sunscreen is to prevent skin cancer. Skin cancer often begins with changes to your skin. Solar keratosis is one type of skin condition that is caused by too much sun, and it has the potential to become cancerous.
2. WEAR SUNSCREEN ON ALL SKIN TYPES
One common misconception is that those with darker skin do not need to wear sunscreen. This is not true. Even those with naturally darker complexion need to use sun protection. Anyone can be at risk for sun damage, even if you don’t see a sunburn on your skin.
3. SOME MEDICATIONS CAUSE HEIGHTENED SKIN SENSITIVITY
Various medications can cause your skin to become extra sensitive to the sun. Acne medications, whether an oral pill or a topical cream, will create more sensitivity. Certain heart, diabetes, cancer, or antifungal medicines, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, may also cause sun sensitivity.
4. WEAR SUNSCREEN TO HELP HYDRATE YOUR SKIN
Sunscreen can help moisturize your skin. Some sunscreens contain skin hydrating ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, jojoba oil, or vegetable glycerin. Make sure to check the ingredients before you buy though, because some contain alcohol, which will actually dehydrate your skin.
5. UV RAYS ARE ALWAYS DANGEROUS
You might think that the sun’s rays are less harmful in winter months or when the weather isn’t as nice. In reality, UV rays are always dangerous regardless of the time of year. This includes the winter. Sunscreen should even be worn on cloudy, overcast days if you will be outside.
6. THE OZONE IS DEPLETING
The ozone layer is Earth’s outermost layer and absorbs most of the sun’s UV rays. However, the ozone layer is losing its strength, which means that UV rays are able to get through much easier. This causes a greater risk to your skin.
7. WEAR SUNSCREEN TO PREVENT MULTIPLE TYPES OF DAMAGE
Sunscreen can help to keep an even skin tone and prevent other types of skin damage. It can slow down the progression of wrinkles, prevent your skin from losing its elasticity, and stop the occurrence of sunspots or dark spots.
8. SUNSCREEN IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE
Today, sunscreen is easily accessible. You can go to any drug store, grocery store, gas station, or makeup store, and they will have many types of sunscreen. With so much access to sunscreen, you can easily protect your skin.
9. SUN DAMAGE HAPPENS OVER TIME
It’s important to remember that sun damage happens all the time. You can’t wear sunscreen a few times a year and expect to be safe from damage. Even if you can’t see a sunburn, there could still be cellular damage underneath your top layer of skin.
10. UVA RAYS PENETRATE CAR AND PLANE WINDOWS
When it comes to sun rays, two types hit the Earth directly: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are shorter and cause sunburns. UVA rays are longer and penetrate the skin deeper. The glass used in plane and car windows blocks UVB rays, but not UVAs. This means you are at risk for a sunburn when the sun comes through side windows.
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From important health information to annual checkups, you can trust that MCR Health is here for you! If you have any concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to reach out to our caring medical team. If you are ready to take the next steps for your health, make an appointment today!
