We’ve made it through the bulk of the summer in Western North Carolina but we’re not quite done yet. If the prolonged sun and heat have worn you down this year don’t become complacent during the waning days of summer when it comes to being safe in the sun this month. August is Summer Sun Safety month and it’s a reminder to protect yourself as we wind down this season:
Aging skin – Our body’s largest organ and protective layer, the skin, weakens as we grow older due to many factors, including collagen and elastin fiber breakdown, cell shrinkage and tissue thinning. It’s natural, irreversible and part of the aging process. This makes skin protection more important for older adults because of the elevated risk of damage. During the summer older adults are more at risk for sun damage because of this issue.
Use the correct amount of protection – Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection against UV radiation, not the exposure time. Because UV radiation intensity varies during the day, the SPF needs can also change. There are a variety of skin protection items to choose from, such as sunscreen applied to the skin, clothing with long sleeves/pants or with SPF in the fabric, sunglasses, hats and umbrellas.
Watch the time – The most damaging sun rays, ultraviolet (UV) B, are strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you are outside, limit your time during these hours or wear UV-blocking clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses. Even outside of these hours, although the UV is less intense, it still exists and ought to be protected against.
Cloudy days – Yes, sun protection is also necessary even if you cannot see the sun through clouds or, as has been the case this summer, during days with hazy, smoke-filled air. This is because up to 80 percent of UV rays penetrate the clouds. Keep this in mind, too, when you’re at the beach or lake because sand also bounces sun rays back
Indoors – Have you thought about skin exposure even when you’re indoors on sunny days? Most likely you haven’t, but if you sit near a window in the car or home, or skylight/sky tube, that does not have a UV protective film, then you also need protection during this time. Close to 80 percent of skin-damaging rays can pass through vehicle glass and it is a factor to consider. Take a look here at the difference in this person’s window-exposed skin.
Protecting your eyes and skin from sun exposure will prevent serious health complications or cancer. Up to 40 to 50 percent of Americans aged 65 and older will have skin cancer at least once, and most result from sun damage over time. Some eye cancers develop due to damage in the lens and cornea caused by too much UV light.
Because we are living longer, the aggregate effect of sun damage causes elevated harm as we grow older. We are fortunate to live in this beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain location with so many outdoor activities that you want to engage in, sun safety will help you continue to lead an active lifestyle.
To learn more about summer sun safety check out this resource and this website.
