|
Everyone loves a beautiful, sunny summer day, but without proper protection and maintenance, the sun can be harmful to your skin. Small lifestyle changes can lower your risk for wrinkles, spots and cancer. As your skin is exposed to the sun's harmful rays, it begins to look and feel different. It is more important than ever to watch out for changes in your skin. The sun is good for many things, such as making flowers grow and providing light, but it can also harm your skin due to the release of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause wrinkles, age spots and tans, as well as sunburn. UV rays reach the earth every day and can even reach you on a cloudy day causing damage to your skin. With early detection and prevention, skin cancer has a high cure rate. Protect your skin now and watch out for the harmful effects of the sun. The Sun Changes Your Skin According to dermatologists, there is no such thing as a healthy tan. Tanned skin contains cells with genetic structures that have been permanently damaged by the sun. Emitting invisible rays of ultraviolet light, the sun can cause irreversible damage to your skin. As your skin is exposed to the sun's harmful rays, it begins to look and feel differently than it had before. Mild and moderate sunburn will show dark reddening of the skin's surface in conjunction with severe pain and peeling. Skin cancer is one of the most serious side effects of too much sun exposure. Wrinkles can also be increased as a person spends a lengthy period of time in the sun, and can be an indicator of too much sun exposure. If you have freckles, pay close attention to their color, shape, and texture because if they begin to change it is important to call your dermatologist as soon as possible. Any changes in the skin's color, appearance, the addition or change of freckles, or any other changes occurring after being in the sun should warrant a visit to your dermatologist for early testing and detection. Protect your Skin from Damaging Effects of the Sun When out in the sun, select a product with an adequate SPF factor that also blocks the full spectrum of UVA light. SPF ratings tell you how well the sunscreen shields against UVA rays which burn the skin and contribute to skin cancer. SPF of at least 15 offers the best protection. Also, avoid products that combine UV and insect protection in bottle because their sunscreen effectiveness may be reduced. Take extra precautions and be sun smart. You can safely work and play outdoors without increasing skin cancer risk or premature aging if you take extra measures in protecting your skin from harmful rays. Follow the ABC's of skin protection: A. Asymmetrical
B. An irregular Border
C. More than two Colors
D. Diameter that is wider than a pencil
E. Evolving In other words, if you notice any change in your skin, even if it doesn't fall under these categories, it could indicate something serious. If a suspicious spot gets bigger, but is still smaller than a pencil eraser or bleeds or itches, tell your West Palm Beach dermatologist immediately. Your West Palm Beach dermatologist can tell you about the different options for treatment, protection and to help reduce the signs of skin aging.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading dermatologist in West Palm Beach, Dr. Barry Kuttner. A board certified dermatologist, Dr. Kuttner is accompanied by Dr. Kathleen Herne and physician assistant, Dr. Kristen Hafner, providing services in excessive sweating, skin cancer treatment, acne treatment and Mohs surgery in West Palm Beach for quality care patients can trust.
|
