Everyone needs some sun exposure because the sun is a major source of Vitamin D. Vitamin D allows your body to absorb calcium, and it strengthens your bones and teeth. But, beware of over exposure to the sun?s ultraviolet (UV) rays that can be very harmful to your health.
When you get sunburned, the UV rays have already damaged your skin cells and your skin will eventually peel off. Getting sunburned is not healthy and can cause skin cancer. The UV rays can also cause premature aging where your skin becomes thick, wrinkled, and leathery. Your skin may take several years to manifest the changes, so you should start protecting your skin at a very early age.
”’Preventing UV Ray Damage”’
Use a sunscreen that has a sun protection filter (SPF) of at least 30. You do not need a rx drugs prescription for sunscreen. Sunscreen effectively blocks a high percentage of UV rays and it should be used whenever you are in the sun. Some people are allergic to sunscreen, so you may want to put a small amount in an area on your arm for a couple of days to see if you develop any redness or a rash, before putting it all over your body.
Covering up with a shirt helps prevent some of the UV rays from getting through. Tightly woven shirts and pants are the most helpful. If you can see through your shirt, the UV rays can also get through to your skin.
Hats with wide brims help keep the sun off of your head, face, and neck to protect your skin and your eyes. Sunglasses with UV protection help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts, as you get older.
The sun shines year round and you should protect your skin and eyes year round.
