By Joseph Onorato, MD, FAAD
Okay, so we all know that it’s important to wear sunscreen, especially here in Florida where the sun shines brightly throughout most of the year, but are we really doing the best job of protecting ourselves from the harmful UV rays. It’s a little more complex than most people know.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand why UV protection is not optional—It’s critical.
One in five people develops skin cancer. There are different types of skin cancer, and melanoma is by far the most harmful of them all. Every hour a person dies of melanoma, and this year alone, over 132,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed.
UVC rays are the most harmful to the skin and eyes, but the ozone layer blocks many of the rays. UVA rays play a huge role in causing skin damage and aging. The wavelengths of UVA rays are long and are therefore less harmful than UVB rays. UVB rays are extremely damaging to the skin and eyes and can cause cancer.
When the skin becomes tanned, it’s due to damage caused by UV radiation at the cellular level. No tan is safe, and that includes UV radiation from tanning beds. Despite what you might hear from tanning bed business owners or advocates.
Timing your outdoor activities
The reason we hear so much advice on wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and avoiding over sun exposure between 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, is due in large part to the sun’s harmful UV rays during the time when the sun is the highest in the sky. However, even on gloomy days, just because it’s darker, cloudier and cooler, that doesn’t mean it’s any safer as far as UV rays are concerned. We still need to protect ourselves.
Windows & Glass
Harmful UVB rays are shorter wavelengths and consequently can even penetrate through glass, so while driving in a car, or sitting by a window at work, the UVB radiation can harm you.
Sunglasses
According to the American Optometric Association, If your eyes are exposed to excessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time, you will likely experience photokeratitis. Like a “sunburn of the eye,” photokeratitis can be painful. Its symptoms include red eyes, a foreign body sensation or gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing. The eyes are also at risk for melanoma, so please wear sunglasses that have adequate UV protection.
Clothing
Wearing clothing that is infused with SPF or even just long sleeves, a hat and seeking shade are always wise choices. If you’ve been out in the sun for a long period of time, perhaps on the beach or boat and need to seek shade, doing so is important.
If there is no shade, please reapply sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Also, for your health, make sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water.
Quality Sunscreen Products Matter
Wearing a quality broad-spectrum sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection is the first step. However, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours, and if you are sweating or in the water, you must reapply it more frequently. Here in Florida, where it is usually warm in the winter, covering exposed skin with light-weight long sleeves or pants and opting for those with an SPF is ideal if you are spending a lot of time out in the sun, at an event, or on the beach.
Investing in Your SKIN = Investing in Your LIFE
There are so many choices and options when it comes to keeping skin healthy and protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Consequently, a small investment of your time can help save your life. On average skin cancer screenings take about fifteen minutes. These few minutes of your time can potentially prolong years to the health of your skin and life.
A dermatologist can diagnose up to 3,000 different skin disorders. On a regular basis, you should have a screening at least once a year. And, because some forms of skin cancer grow very rapidly, if you are experiencing any new types of lesions, bumps, moles that are of concern, you should schedule a dermatology appointment immediately.
SWFL Dermatology Plastic Surgery & Laser Center
Whether you want to focus on antiaging and aesthetic procedures or medical dermatology for the health of your skin, or a combination of both, SWFL Dermatology Plastic Surgery & Laser Center has the most comprehensive options. Not only are there numerous services, but you can trust that you are in the best hands with the most experienced practitioners.
SWFL Dermatology Plastic Surgery & Laser Center is a privately owned, all-inclusive dermatology practice specializing in adult and pediatric general dermatology and Mohs surgery for skin cancer.
Services & Treatments Provided:
• General Dermatology
• Skin Cancer
• Mohs Surgery
• Botox
• Dermal Fillers
• Cosmetic Dermatology
• Medical Grade Skincare Products
The staff at SWFL Dermatology Plastic Surgery & Laser Center is dedicated to providing the most personalized care by treating their patients like family. Each provider is committed to taking the time to understand the concerns and goals of the patient in order to provide the best-individualized care for that patient.
What’s on YOUR Skin?
Founder & Owner
Joseph Onorato, MD, FAAD
Dr. Onorato has over 25 years of experience practicing dermatology and is board certified. He serves as SWFL Dermatology’s medical director, encouraging his team to provide the best skin care services in the area. He focuses on general dermatology and dermatological surgery including laser treatments, chemical peels, and injectable fillers.
SWFLDermatology.com
13800 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 112
Naples, FL 34110
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