Skin is the largest organ in the body, and it protects the body from external factors such as the sun, pollution, and environmental toxins. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin damage. Therefore, it is essential to protect your skin from strong sunlight. The best ways to achieve this include understanding the ultraviolet (AV) levels, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, wearing sunglasses, and seeking shade. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.
AV Levels:
The first step in protecting your skin from the sun is to understand the UV index or AV levels. The UV index is a measure of the strength of the sun's UV radiation. It ranges from 0 to 11+, with higher numbers indicating greater exposure to UV radiation. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends avoiding the sun during peak hours, which are typically between 10 am and 4 pm, when the UV index is highest.
Sunscreen:
Applying sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun. Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting the sun's UV radiation. It is important to choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays. It is also essential to choose a sunscreen that is labelled 'broad-spectrum', meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It is recommended to apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Protective Clothing:
Wearing protective clothing is another way to protect your skin from the sun. Clothing with a tight weave, such as denim or canvas, provides better protection than clothing with a loose weave, such as cotton. It is also recommended to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Some clothing is specifically designed to protect against the sun, such as UV-blocking shirts and hats.
Sunglasses:
Sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory; they also protect your eyes from the sun's UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause cataracts and other eye problems. Therefore, it is essential to wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
Shade:
Staying in the shade is another way to protect your skin from the sun. Shade can reduce your UV exposure by up to 50%. It is essential to seek shade during peak hours, especially if you are outside for an extended period. Shade can be provided by trees, umbrellas, or other shelters.
