Head for the Shade

Health Guides
Head for the Shade
Proactive Skin Care

Soaking up the sun’s rays used to be healthy when global warming had not depleted environment of its ozone layer leaving us vulnerable to sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Now, we know that over exposure to sun damages our skin by causing deep wrinkles, dry and rough skin, liver spots, and more serious disorders such as non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant) skin tumors.
For better sun protection, follow these tips:
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 (preferably SPF 30 or higher) on all exposed skin, including the lips, even on cloudy days.

• Apply more sunscreen (with higher SPF) when you’re around reflective surfaces like water, snow, or ice.

• If exposed to water, either through swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen should be used.

• Re-apply sunscreen frequently.

• Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

• Be in the shade whenever possible.

• Wear protective, tightly-woven clothing.

• Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day to avoid peak sunlight hours between 10 am and 4 pm.

• Some medications, such as prescription acne medications or birth control pills, can increase your sensitivity to the sun. If you’re taking any such medication, increase your sun protection.