STAY OUT OF THE SUN

Love the sun, but let's talk sun damage… 

The sun is a vital source of light and heat for our planet, but it also emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause damage to our skin. UV rays are a form of radiation that can penetrate the skin and cause damage at a cellular level. This damage can lead to a variety of skin problems, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the statistics around sun damage and what they tell us about the importance of protecting our skin from UV rays.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), skin cancer is the most common form of cancer globally, with over 3 million cases diagnosed each year. The majority of these cases are caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. In fact, the WHO estimates that up to 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by UV radiation. Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, is also strongly linked to UV exposure.

UV rays can also cause premature aging of the skin. Sun damage can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, as well as a loss of elasticity and firmness. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people who spend a lot of time in the sun are more likely to develop signs of aging earlier than those who protect their skin from UV rays.

Sun damage is not just a problem for adults. Children and teenagers are also at risk of sun damage, and the effects can be long-lasting. Research has shown that people who have a lot of sun exposure during childhood and adolescence are more likely to develop skin cancer later in life. Additionally, UV rays can damage the eyes, leading to cataracts and other eye problems.

The good news is that sun damage is preventable. The most effective way to protect your skin from UV rays is to use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, and to reapply it every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. Additionally, you can protect your skin by wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, and by seeking shade during the middle of the day when UV rays are strongest.

It's also worth noting that not all skin types are equally susceptible to sun damage. People with darker skin have more melanin, which provides some natural protection from UV rays. However, even dark-skinned individuals can still be damaged by UV rays and should still take precautions to protect their skin.

Sun damage is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. By taking precautions to protect your skin from UV rays, you can reduce your risk of sun damage and enjoy the sun safely. Remember to use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the middle of the day when UV rays are strongest.