Too
much sun may risk your skin’s health [Bulletin date: June 28, 2026]
You can
enjoy Georgia’s outdoors this
summer while still protecting your skin, but prevention is the
key. To avoid sun-damaged skin, stay out of the sun between 10:00am and 2:00pm
when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum
sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and reapply it often. Also, wear a hat,
shoes, sunglasses (with UVA and UVB protection) and cover as much skin as
possible when you’re in the sun.
Avoid sunburn at all costs. A red, painful sunburn is considered a first-degree burn. If blisters develop, it becomes a second-degree burn. Every time this happens, more damage occurs to the layers of the skin, possibly leading to scaly patches (actinic keratosis) and skin cancer. In addition, the sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the fibers of the skin, which keep it taut and firm, resulting in wrinkles.
Other parts of the body can be damaged by too much exposure to sunlight, as well. Eyes may develop cataracts over time resulting in cloudy or foggy vision. Lips may develop scaly patches or areas of dryness, cracking or swelling. This could be the onset of skin cancer. Don’t forget about the bottoms of your feet. Walking barefoot on hot surfaces may burn your soles.
Remember, skin cancer can show up anywhere, especially where the skin has been exposed to the sun. If you see a new or changing mole, spot or growth, be sure to see a dermatologist immediately.
So take good care of your skin this
summer while enjoying your favorite outdoor activities!
St. Ann Parish Nurse
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