Sun safety

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Sun safety

Summer Heat: Avoiding Damaging Effects of the Sun
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Living in New England, I look forward to the warm weather and treasure the feel of the sun on my skin.  However, as my sisters (who are both lifeguards) often remind me, “Too much sun is no fun”.  During the traditional day-time hours, regardless of weather, there are light rays shining down.  With light rays shining down, there is UV exposure.  This exposure to sunlight has both beneficial and detrimental effects. 

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The rising and setting of the sun is important for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.  It also promotes vitamin D production in the human body and stimulates the growth of important, nutritious fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet.  However, just like anything else, too much of a good thing is detrimental.  Too much sun breaks down elastin in the skin and causes bruising in the skin, decreased wound healing, and wrinkles.  The UVA and UVB light also causes cataracts and other eye damage, immune system suppression, and can cause cancer.  Although society looks favorably on tanned skin, it is actually damaged skin, as the genetic information within those cells are permanently damaged. 

Practice Safe Sun as heard on JRFM | natalielangston
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Sun safety tips
  1. Wear a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen daily, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30
  2. When sweating or swimming reapply sunscreen at least every 80 minutes
  3. Wear sunglasses with total UV protection
  4. Wear wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeves, and pants when appropriate (there is more sun protection with darker-colored clothing, dry clothing, and more tightly woven fabric)
  5. The shadow rule:  “Short shadow – seek shade” (American Skin Association).  Whenever possible work and take breaks in shaded areas
  6. Be aware of the time, the strongest sun exposure is between the hours of 10:00 and 16:00
  7. Water, snow, and sand all reflect the damaging sun rays and increases your exposure
  8. Regularly check your skin for changes or new growths
  9. Do not use tanning beds
  10. Use lip balm, cosmetics, and contact lenses that offer UV protection
  11. Check expiration dates on sunscreens.  If there is no expiration date listed, the sunscreen should not be used after 3 years

Millennials aren't getting the message about sun safety and the dangers of tanning
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Although not the most interesting topic, sun safety is an important thing to be aware of and practice.  Generally speaking, tactical athletes’ are at higher risk of cancer than other populations; if you can help to protect yourself against cancer caused by the sun, why not take the extra 2 minutes each morning to apply sunscreen? 

By:  J. Scott, DPT, ATC, TSAC-F

Sources:
American Skin Association
WebMD
CDC
United States EPA

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