Summer season is fast approaching. While this season gives you a chance to go outdoors and enjoy the sunshine, it can also damage your skin. The sun’s UV rays increase your skin’s sensitivity, causing sunburns, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. To protect your skin from sun damage this summer, it is important that you wear sunscreen. Read on to learn more about sunscreen and its importance.
What is Ultraviolet?
Ultraviolet, or UV, light is a wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum that we can’t actually see with our eyes. In fact, it’s far too short of a wavelength for us to detect. But that doesn’t make it any less dangerous to your health. UV rays are emitted by the sun. This energy causes molecules in your skin to absorb the harmful rays and break them down, which damages your DNA. This can lead to skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While your body has natural defenses against UV light in the form of melanin, this only happens after your skin has been exposed to the sun for a while. This is why it’s so important that you protect yourself from the damaging effects of UV exposure.
Your doctor knows that excessive exposure to sunlight can cause damage to your teeth, as well. The UVA rays cause the same molecular damage on your tooth enamel as on your skin. Sunburned mouths are painful and can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Be sure to wear sunscreen whenever you spend time outdoors this summer!
What Causes Skin Cancer?
While skin cancer is associated with aging skin and the sun, it can actually affect young people as well. Regular exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds may lead to the development of skin cancer. This is one of the most common types of cancer and can affect people of all skin colors. The most common types of skin cancer include squamous cell carcinomas, basal cell carcinomas, and melanomas. Around one million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.
There are three major factors that increase the risk for skin cancer: Previous sun exposure, damage to the skin that increases its sensitivity, and genetics. Having fair skin is also associated with a higher risk for developing skin cancer.
The best way to prevent the development of skin cancer is by protecting your skin from sun damage. This means wearing sunscreen every day. When going outside during the summer, give your skin extra protection against sunburn with sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. You should also avoid tanning beds and too much exposure to sunlight whenever possible. Some moles may become cancerous over time, so you should have these checked regularly for any changes.
If you’ve noticed any changes in your skin’s appearance, you should see a dermatologist right away. There are different types of treatment available depending on the stage and type of cancer you have. In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove cancer from the skin. In some cases, radiation and chemotherapy may be required as well.
Since some types of skin cancer can develop very quickly, early detection is very important. If you notice any new moles on your body or changes in the way your particular mole looks, make an appointment with a qualified doctor right away. They’ll provide the necessary tests and treatments to ensure your health.
Benefits of Sunscreen
The sun’s UV rays can severely damage the skin, specifically the sensitive skin on your face. Sunscreen can protect your skin from cancer and premature aging caused by exposure to the sun. It also provides protection against sunburn and sunspots. A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 is recommended for daily use.
Wearing sunscreen daily can protect your face from the sun year round and prevent future sun damage to your face. Using sunscreen consistently is especially important during summer months because sun exposure is at its peak during these months. Sun exposure can cause permanent skin damage and discoloration. It is important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before going outside to protect your skin against harmful rays.
In addition to wearing sunscreen, protect your skin by staying in the shade when possible and avoiding going out when the sun is at its strongest. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face from direct sunlight. Following a skin care regimen with serums will help protect your skin and fight signs of aging. Serums are lightweight skin care products that are applied after cleansing but before a moisturizer. They hydrate the skin and provide anti-aging benefits such as brightening dark spots and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Please reach out to our practice in Wyandotte, MI, to have a consultation with our doctor, Dr. Abrahamson. Please call us at (734) 287-3000 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.
