Yahoo Movies Here’s what sunscreen to use and more tips to stay safe in the SC sun over Memorial Day weekend
The long Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching to kick off the unofficial start of summer and all the outdoor activities that go along with it.
Anytime a person is outside without proper cover, however, they are being exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These UV rays are an invisible form of radiation and a form of invisible sunlight. Exposure can happen even on cloudy, overcast days and can penetrate clothing.
Different types of UV rays
UV rays occur as three different types. UVA, or “ultraviolet A-rays”, which are believed to damage connective tissues and increase the risk for developing skin cancer. UVB, “ultraviolet B-rays,” penetrate into the skin but occur less deeply; however, they can still cause some types of skin cancer. Third, natural UVC, “ultraviolet C-rays”, are absorbed by the atmosphere and do not pose a risk, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Best tips to remember for sun safety
Finding shade will help prevent any injury from sun exposure. By limiting your body’s direct exposure to the sun, you can alleviate the possibility of sun-related burns and long-term injury. Seeking shade between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is pertinent as this is when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to help protect your skin by applying an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. Remember to reapply sunscreen to yourself and family members at least once every two hours. Feel free to reapply after swimming or sweating. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not recommended for infants aged six months old or younger. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends keeping babies at this age out of the sun during these midday hours. Using special protective clothing is recommended if they have to be in the heat and sun.
Cover up with layers when you are outside to protect your skin. By wearing clothing with more coverage, you are able to protect as much skin as possible. A wide-brimmed sun hat can also help limit exposure. Eyes additionally need to be protected from sun damage and cataracts by wearing sunglasses. Wrap-around sunglasses can help prevent any sun exposure which may otherwise sneak in from the sides.
Importance of sun protection
The protection of your skin is essential to prevent premature aging, damage to the skin, eyes and immune system, and the potential for skin cancer.
Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to the different UV rays.
UVB rays pose a greater risk for skin cancer than that of UVA rays. However, UVA rays do cause aging, wrinkling and loss of elasticity of the skin and increase the damaging effects of UVB rays that cause skin cancer and cataracts in any individual, according to Johns Hopkins Medical.
In 2018, 27,906 skin cancer cases were reported in the state of South Carolina by the CDC. The age-adjusted rate of new cancer cases was 426.5 per 100,000 people. Melanomas of the skin were the sixth top reported cancer in that year.
Things to remember
Try to avoid scheduling outdoor activities during the hours that the sun is at its strongest. If unable to be prevented, plan under a shaded area.
Always check the sunscreen’s expiration date. Using expired sunscreen can lead to complications and potential risks. Sunscreen without a listed expiration date on the packaging has a shelf life of no more than three years, which is shortened if the container has been exposed to high temperatures such as being left in a hot car or moving truck during the summer months.
