Protecting Skin in Spring is Essential
Take Precautions Against the Harmful Effects of the Sun Year-round
Feb 27, 2009
As spring arrives, the sun’s rays are a welcome addition to daily routines and the sun beckons everyone to enjoy the outdoor beauty of nature. But the sun can also be harmful to people if they don’t take proper precautions against its harmful rays.
Dermatologists and physicians have known for many years that the sun poses particular threats to the human skin and body. Not only is the sun responsible for damaged skin today, it can escalate the aging process and create potential health risks for cancer or premature aging in the future. Taking preventive measures to protect the skin during the spring and summer when the sun emits the most harmful rays is essential.
Spring is the time to begin a strict plan for protecting the skin and body against the harmful effects of the sun.
- Avoid the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the sun’s harmful rays are the most dangerous. The sun’s rays are especially strong and harmful during this period of time. The skin can become easily sunburned and damaged during these hours – and don’t be fooled by how cool it is. In springtime, the sun emits harmful rays even on cloudy days.
- The sun is harmful for all skin types and colors. Just because a person has dark skin, tans easily, or feels spared for other reasons, the sun does not discriminate. The harmful rays of the sun attack everyone and it’s always best to be safe by protecting skin every day – even on balmy spring days.
- Always start with a good quality sunscreen when skin is exposed to sun. Remember that you should also use sunscreen on cloudy spring or summer days too. Sunscreen should be worn year-round and should have an SPF protection factor of at least 15 or higher.
- Use specially formulated sunscreen for the face, especially if you have sensitive or oily skin. Sunscreen should be used on the face year-round. Don’t be deceived by the comfortable temperatures in springtime because the sun is still emitting harmful rays every second.
- Late spring is the time when people really start enjoying swimming, boating, fishing, and spending time near water. Reapply sunscreen every 20 minutes when swimming or near water. It is also important to wear protective clothing such as a hat, long sleeves, and other clothing to protect skin when exposed for long periods of time.
- Drink plenty of water! Water makes up approximately 60% or more of the human body and the sun can deplete the body of valuable fluids and nutrients needed for bodily processes.
- After being exposed to the sun in spring or summer, it’s important to clean the skin thoroughly and apply a good moisturizer. This will help avoid itching, discomfort, and premature aging.
For more detailed information on the harmful effects of sun on the skin and body, and to learn the best ways to avoid those risks, visit the American Academy of Dermatology website.
Taking proper precautions against the harmful effects of the sun during spring and summer will keep the skin and body healthier and younger looking for much longer.
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