Authored by Sanketa Nayak in Skin Care
Published on 01-13-2009

The sun emits many types of radiation and the most common one are the light and heat that reaches the earth. There is also another type that we cannot see or feel and it is called that Ultraviolet radiation. The ozone layer is the one that is absorbing almost all UV radiation but with its slowly decreasing condition, it can’t anymore do its job well. This is why we can still feel the effects of the sun like sun burn and other health problems that are related.

UV rays are the ultimate cause of skin cancer and premature skin aging. Every year the number of people getting skin cancer increases and this cause alarm to everyone. Exposing yourself to UV rays doesn’t only involve giving you a sun burn but it has proven to give a long lasting damage to the skin. One of its results is skin aging and the most prevalent one is skin cancer. It can also give a high risk of getting eye disorders like cataracts when you look directly in the sun. There are lots of measures that can be taken to avoid getting a high exposure to this radiation. Take note that the amount of UV radiation received by our body is the same percentage of getting the chance of developing skin cancer. Here are some guides that can help you to protect yourself in the negative effects of UV radiation.

1. As much as possible limit your sun exposure when it is at its highest peak. The middle of day is considered the time when the sun dramatically emits a large amount of radiation. Avoid planning an activity in during these hours. If you have no choice, get enough sun protection. Take note that UV radiation can pass through the water so don’t think that you are safe when you are doing water related activity. Also whether you are in the sand or snow, it can both increase the amount of UV radiation that you get.
2. If you simple cannot avoid an outdoor activity, make sure that you are situated not directly under the sun.
3. Cover your skin as much as possible with protective clothing like long sleeves, long pants or skirts. Dark colored clothing offer more protection compared to the light covered ones. Choose the ones that are made by tightly woven fabrics as they provide better cover up. There are now types of clothing that are sold with SPF protection. 100% polyester, Shiny polyester blends and blue jeans are some examples of clothing that are good enough to protect you. Avoid wearing bleached cotton, knits and threadbare fabrics.
4. Choose sunscreen with right amount of SPF. Apply every two hours when you are outdoors. Look at the sunscreen label and check if it has a broad spectrum because these can certainly give UVA and UVB protection. If you are wearing make up, check if it contains sunscreen factor. Apply generous amount of sunscreen before going outside. 20-30 minutes is the ideal time.
5. Use accessories like hats or sunglasses that can protect your face. Sunglasses can decrease your chance in getting eye cataract. Buy sunglasses that got a uv protection.
6. Children are the ones most affect with UV due to their sensitive skin. Give them more protection when they are under the sun.
7. Examine your skin regularly to see if you got some pre cancerous condition. The earlier you see the symptoms, the more chances you can prevent it.