Protecting the Sun from Harm
In the quest to safeguard our skin from the harmful effects of the sun, it's essential to make informed choices about the products we use and the habits we adopt. Here's a guide to help you navigate the world of sun protection effectively.
Clothing
Choose long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven fabrics for optimal protection. Darker colours generally provide better UV protection. Clothes labelled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) offer tested UV blocking, enhancing protection[2][4].
Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. A generous application—about one ounce (a shot glass full) per full-body application—is recommended[2][3][5]. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Choose formulations suited for different areas: creams for dry skin/face, gels for oily or hairy areas, sticks for around the eyes, and sprays for convenience (sprays must be rubbed in thoroughly)[1]. Tinted sunscreens can protect against visible light and reduce discoloration[1][2][3][5].
Sunglasses
Wear wide, wraparound sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes and the surrounding skin. This helps prevent cataracts and other UV-related eye damage[4][5].
Hats
Choose wide-brimmed hats that shade your face, ears, and neck. These areas are often exposed to intense sunlight and are common sites for skin cancer. Hats should have brims at least 3 inches wide to maximize protection[1][2][4].
Additional sun safety measures include planning outdoor activities when the UV index is below 3, seeking shade especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and performing regular skin self-exams for early detection of skin changes[1][4].
Other Sun Protection Measures
Sun-Safe screens and window coverings can offer protection against UV rays and reduce glare from windows[6]. Sun-protective swimsuits for children can be purchased through companies on the internet and some sporting goods stores. Labels on sunglasses should include 99 percent to 100 percent UVA and UVB protection[7]. Sunscreens should be water-resistant and broad-spectrum, with an SPF rating of at least 30 to 50[8].
Synthetic and semisynthetic fibers such as polyester and rayon provide more sun protection than cotton. Clothing helps provide protection from ultraviolet light, with tightly woven or closely knitted dark-coloured fabric offering more protection. Several companies sell clothing made of sunlight- or UV-resistant fabric, offering up to 50+ UPF[3]. Garments can lose their sun-protective effectiveness over time; follow label instructions for care.
It's important to note that sunscreen should not be applied to babies under six months old.
In summary, combining UV-protective clothing, high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen applied properly and consistently, UV-blocking sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats offers comprehensive protection against harmful UV radiation and reduces skin cancer risk.
In the realm of health-and-wellness, sun-protective clothing with UPF ratings can be a crucial factor for skin-care, providing tested UV blocking and enhancing safety [2][4]. Furthermore, sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher, when applied generously and reapplied regularly, can offer effective skin-care against sun damage [2][3][5].
