The summer season is a time for outdoor adventures, cherished memories, and quality family moments. The sun-drenched days of summer are just right for barbecues in the park and lazy poolside or beach days with friends.But it's crucial to acknowledge the risks associated with sun exposure and take proactive steps to safeguard the health and well-being of your loved ones. Although some of these dangers are worsening, there is more information than ever about how to protect your skin.
The skin is the largest organ in our body. It is divided into two layers, the epidermis and the dermis, which allow it to regenerate and make it waterproof, resistant, flexible, and working 24 hours a day. Its main functions in the body include:
- Serving as a protective barrier. The cellular and immunological mechanisms of the skin protect us from diseases, extreme temperatures, and injuries such as blows or burns. Skin also absorbs what is beneficial to the body and filters out what is harmful.
- Receiving signals.r. Its nerve endings allow the body to receive the stimuli produced by touch. It is estimated that for every cm² of skin, there are more than 4,500 sensory receptors that send information immediately to the brain.
- Controlling metabolism, retaining important substances, keeping us hydrated, and eliminating harmful substances. Skin is also capable of regulating body temperature.
- Absorbing and distributing vitamin D.
Effect of the Sun on the Skin
For some people, the skin tans when it absorbs UV rays. Tanning is caused by the increased activity and number of melanocytes, which produce a brown pigment known as melanin. Melanin helps block harmful UV rays to some degree, which is why people with naturally darker skin are less likely to get sunburned while people with lighter skin are more prone to burning. Sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. However, UV exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer even when it does not lead to sunburn.
Keep these tips in mind to keep your skin and body healthy this summer:
Best Sun Protection Strategies
- Use a Good Sunscreen. Regardless of your skin tone, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Make sunscreen application a daily ritual for everyone in the family. Apply it generously at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Seek Shade: Encourage your family to take regular breaks from the sun by seeking shade, especially during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun's rays are the strongest. Plan outdoor activities in shaded areas or under an umbrella to provide an added layer of protection.
- Cover Up: Dress your family in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin from direct sunlight. Sunglasses with UV protection are also crucial to safeguard their eyes and the delicate skin around them.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, especially on hot summer days. Encourage your family to drink plenty of water and eat hydrating fruits and vegetables to keep their skin moisturized and resilient.
- Be Mindful of Reflection: Remember that sand, water, and other reflective surfaces can intensify the sun's rays. Take extra precautions when spending time near these areas and ensure your family's skin is adequately protected.
- Teach Good Habits: Educate your children about the importance of skin protection and encourage them to develop healthy habits from an early age. Teach them to apply sunscreen and seek shade when they feel too hot or uncomfortable.
- Regular Skin Checks: Conduct regular skin checks for your family members to identify any suspicious moles, spots, or changes in the skin. If you notice anything concerning, consult a dermatologist promptly.
Remember that practicing good skin health habits should be a year-round commitment, not just limited to the summer season. Don't have health insurance? Call us and we can help you find the best health coverage at an affordable price: (844) 303-2233. Or send us a message at Healthinsurance@holadoctor.net
