Understanding UV rays is key to choosing the right protection. Sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, clothing covering skin, and wraparound sunglasses are recommended. Lips are also vulnerable and should be protected with an SPF lip balm.
Anyone who spends time in the sun, even for short periods, benefits from some type of UV protection. UV protection includes chemical formulas, clothing, and eyewear designed to protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays. The first step in choosing the right type of UV protection starts with understanding UV rays.
The sun emits ultraviolet rays, which are a type of light energy. These rays can be divided into three different categories: UVA, UVB and UVC. Both UVA and UVB rays are implicated in skin cell damage and increased risk of skin cancer. While UVC rays can cause skin damage and are considered the most dangerous of the ultraviolet rays, they are completely absorbed by the ozone layer. As such, they do not reach the earth’s surface or skin.
The most popular advice regarding UV protection is to avoid languishing in the sun; sunbathing is not good for the skin. Many experts recommend participating in indoor activities from around 10am to 4pm every day, as this is when the sun’s rays are most intense. When a person must participate in outdoor activities at this time of day, it is advisable to wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and leg coverage, such as long pants or a long skirt. These things can provide UV protection.
Sunscreen can play an important role in UV protection. It’s usually best to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection; this means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 is typically the minimum recommended. The sun protection factor can be found on the labels of sunscreens and other products; indicates how long a person can stay in the sun and not get burned while wearing the product. Those with very fair skin or who burn easily may do better with a higher SPF.
While many people remember to wear sunscreen, many forget to protect their lips and eyes from UV rays, but these areas are vulnerable too. Therefore, it’s a good idea to use a lip shade as well, choosing one with an SPF of at least 15. Many lipsticks and lip glosses have sunscreen added for this purpose. It’s also a good idea to wear wraparound sunglasses that provide full UV protection, as the eyes are particularly vulnerable. UV rays can damage the retina and even make a person more likely to develop cataracts as they age.
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