Summer’s scorching temps keep rising, and for many of us, that means seeking out pools, lakes, and beaches to beat the heat. It also means dangerous levels of exposure to harmful, damaging UV rays.
The sun is one of our skin’s biggest enemies, and a constant threat to its youthful, smooth-looking appearance. The sun is also the number one cause of premature skin aging and preventable skin cancer.
UVA rays penetrate deeply into the thickest layer of the skin, causing dark spots, wrinkles and fine line. UVB rays damage surface layers of skin causing painful burns, and potentially leading to the development of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and more dangerous melanomas.
Luckily, there are some simple, no-nonsense ways to both protect your skin from premature aging, and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
- Load up on SPF. It may seem like a no-brainer, but many people skip this critical skin care step, especially if it’s cloudy. Your skin needs protection from UV rays no matter the weather, and even if you’re inside (since those rays can pass through office and car windows). Load up on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more each day, applying about a shot-glass sized amount to all exposed skin. And ladies, even if you’re makeup contains SPF, it’s usually not enough, and will need to be reapplied throughout the day to be effective.
- Opt for skin-protecting accessories and seek out the shade. This means hats and sunglasses. Some bathing suit and clothing companies have also started making UV-protective clothing that blocks some of the sun’s skin-damaging rays, which is especially great news for kiddos. And of course, seek shade where and when you can.
- Don’t skip these spots. The nose, ears, lips, and scalp and some of the most susceptible areas to both premature aging and skin cancer. They’re also some of the most missed when it comes to sunscreen application and sun protection. Don’t forget about them when you head outdoors.
And if you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer and require a Mohs closure post-surgery, Dr. Stong and the team at Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery offer only the most advanced, specialized Mohs procedures – right here in our office.
To learn more about Mohs reconstructive surgery, call to schedule a consultation today!
