The 3 S’s of Sun Protection

One of the best things you can do for your skin is start protecting it TODAY and stop any future damage from occurring. Sun damage is also cumulative, which means it builds up over time starting when you were just a cute little water baby. The Skin Cancer Foundation suggests that your skin has already experienced almost half its UV exposure by the time you’re 40 years old! We must always remember that prevention is easier than reversal.

Just remember the 3 S’s of Sun Protection:

• SPF – If you learn nothing else remember this: Wear your daily SPF! Every. Day. Even on cloudy days. Even on cold, wintery days. Studies show that people who wear a daily SPF of 15 or higher show 24% less skin aging than those who don’t use sunscreen every day. Remember to apply your broad-spectrum SPF at least 20 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin and reapply every 2 hours if you’re in direct sun, swimming or sweating. And don’t skimp! You should use a nickel-sized dollop on your face, and 1 oz. on your body (that’s enough to fill a shot glass!) Slather on that goodness, your future skin will thank you!

• Schedule – Try to plan activities so you’re not in the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM when the UV index is at its highest. It can be tough to avoid that window since it’s in the middle of the day, but you’ll also beat the heat and the crowds if it’s an outdoor event. If you simply can’t avoid it, make sure to wear SPF, bring extra to reapply and limit sun exposure.

• Shade – Speaking of limiting sun exposure, sitting in the shade is a good way to help protect skin. A good rule of thumb is, “Short shadow – seek shade,” meaning the shorter the shadows on the ground, the higher the sun and UV exposure. Grab a cool drink and enjoy the shade!

Laying back in the sun is such a great way to spend the day, but it can leave behind some pesky effects on our skin. While you can absolutely treat and care for these signs of aging, remember they are only skin deep and there could be further damage. Make sure you’re staying on top of your skin health by getting yearly skin screenings and mole checks.

Right now at DermDox Dermatology, we are offering FREE Skin Cancer Screenings for the month of June. Call us NOW to make your FREE appointment at our Hazleton, PA office – 570.459.0029. Otherwise, sport your daily SPF, kick back in the shade, and enjoy what’s left of these beautiful summer days!