Skin protection is vital at any age, but it’s particularly beneficial to be proactive in looking after your skin as you age. You may think that you already have fantastic skincare or sun protection regime in place, but there may be some facts that you don’t know.
Prevention is always better than cure. If you’re looking for advice about how to care for your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and sun spots, here are some facts about skin protection to keep your skin looking healthy all summer long!
1. Up to 90% of visible signs of aging are caused by sun damage
Many of us love to sit out in the sunshine and enjoy the warm glow of the sun on our skin. Being outside on a bright day can boost your mood and make you feel good, but it can also put your skin at risk. Up to 90% of visible signs of aging are caused by sun damage. If you are sunbathing on vacation or heading out for the day, always ensure that you wear sunscreen. Use high-factor creams and sprays when UV rays are intense, sit in the shade during the hottest part of the day, and take extra care if you have fair skin that burns quickly. Protecting your skin can reduce the risk of premature aging and skin cancer.
2. UV rays can damage your skin, even on cloudy days
You might think your skin is safe from the sun if it’s a cloudy day. Studies suggest that up to 80% of harmful UV rays can penetrate the skin even if it’s dull or overcast. Always wear sunscreen or choose makeup or skin care products that contain SPF. Some treatments, including cosmetic therapies and medical dermatology services, can help address signs of aging, but it’s always best to try to prevent sun damage.
3. Anyone can develop skin cancer
In the U.S. alone, more than 9,000 skin cancer cases are diagnosed daily, so it’s crucial to utilize sunscreen and protection. It’s understandable to think that people with fair skin tones have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. In reality, anyone could find themselves undergoing skin cancer treatment. Skin cancer affects all ethnicities, and nobody is immune to sun damage. Everyone should wear sun protection.
4. The lips are more vulnerable to skin cancer than almost any other part of the body
The skin around the lips is incredibly delicate, and the lips don’t produce as much pigment as other skin cells. This means that the lips are more vulnerable to skin cancer than almost any other body part. When applying sunscreen to your face and body, don’t forget to protect your lips. You can buy specially formulated products for easy application. Other areas that are often forgotten include the eyelids, ears, and the soles of the feet.
5. Skin care experts recommend using SPF daily
Using SPF daily protects the skin against damaging UV rays, which cause age spots, sun spots, fine lines, and wrinkles and increase the risk of skin cancer. Even if it’s cold or there is a layer of snow on the ground, it’s beneficial to protect your skin. Apply a layer of sunscreen in the morning before you embark on your day to ensure your skin is protected from UV rays.
Protect your skin this summer with the help of Rodgers Dermatology!
Contact Rodgers Dermatology today to make an appointment to learn more about skin protection! Our qualified team of experts is ready to help you with your skin care needs, including cosmetic and medical treatments to prevent and protect against sun exposure.
Call us at 972-737-7565 or book an appointment online.