How To Get Sun-Kissed Skin Safely

There is nothing that feels quite as great as that first sunny day after a long winter. Everyone looks better with a sun-kissed glow, but it’s important to stay safe when soaking in those magical warm rays. If you want to keep your skin healthy and avoid signs of aging, you should be aware of the risks that sunbathing poses. This is especially relevant as the ozone layer thins due to climate change and allows more ultraviolet (UV) rays to travel through the atmosphere. However, there are still ways to enjoy the sun safely without increasing your risk of skin cancer or serious sun damage.

 

How does the sun actually affect our skin? In simple terms, the sun emits UV light rays that impact our skin’s cellular DNA, causing damage and mutations that can lead to skin cancer and other noticeable (or unsightly) skin conditions. Sun exposure is responsible for most melanoma skin cancers and nonmelanoma skin cancers alike, making it even more crucial to protect your skin, even if you don’t burn easily. While people with fairer skin tones may be more affected, UV rays are still considered a carcinogen and can advance aging and cancer formation for everyone.

 

Avoiding the sun altogether, however, isn’t a good idea, either. UVA rays, a longer wave of ultraviolet light than harmful UVB rays, contribute to our bodies’ production of vitamin D, which is necessary to strengthen our bones, muscles, heart and immune system. Without enough vitamin D, there is a higher risk of colon cancer, in addition to increased fatigue, depression and a weakened immune response.

 

So, how do you create a happy medium between the risks of sun damage and the benefits of vitamin D? The answer lies in sunscreen and other UV-blocking products to protect the skin from the sun’s powerful rays. Studies have proven that regular and sustained use of SPF 15 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen reduces chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma by about 40%, melanoma by 50% and premature skin aging by 24%. That’s a big difference! In addition to sunscreen, there are also some clothes, bathing suits and sunglasses that protect you from UV rays.

 

Proper use and application of sunscreen will help you sunbathe safely. Sweat, oil, and even water can all break down sunscreen over time, so be sure to reapply it at least every two hours. Don’t stay in the sun too long. As with everything, moderation is key.. If you already have sun damage, as many of us do, it’s not too late to reverse it with rejuvenating treatments, such as TriBella™, Venus Viva™ and Sofwave™, all of which treat aging and damage caused by UV rays. We hope you are enjoying the spring weather, and make sure to use these tips and stay safe this summer!