People with sun damaged skin can be found all around the world. To protect your skin, you have just a few options, but they’re both very effective. You can avoid the sun or wear protective clothing when out in it, or you can use the best sunblock, which is often called “broad-spectrum.”
This term means that the formula provides protection against two dangerous types of ultraviolet rays produced by the sun. Both UVA and UVB light have been shown to damage skin and in some cases lead to skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreen, when applied properly, block UVA and UVB rays and essentially eliminate this worry.
After selecting the sunscreen of your choice (and following the guidelines below), take a minute to read the application instructions on the label. The only way the product will work as promised is if you apply it correctly – this means the amount applied and the frequency of re-applications. If you have questions about applying sunscreen, talk with your dermatologist, or contact the manufacturer of the product.
Buying the best sunblock to protect your skin
When you visit your druggist or grocery store in search of what we commonly call “suntan lotion,” make sure to purchase the best sunblock available. The first thing you’re looking for is the designation “broad spectrum.” To protect your skin most efficiently, you’ll also want to note the sun protection factor number (SPF).
In simple terms, the SPF number tells how many minutes “average” skin will take to burn when that particular lotion is properly applied. Thus, an SPF 15 will protect your skin for 15 minutes, an SPF 30 for 30 minutes and so on. Research has found that the most effective sunscreens fall between SPFs of 15 and 50. Know ahead of time what your likely “sunning habits” will be, and buy a product that will provide you with optimal protection.
The skin cancer risk
Nobody likes sun damaged skin. Sunburns hurt and can disrupt your life and make wearing clothing a pain. But of much more concern is the potential development of skin cancer, which has been shown to be quite prevalent among sun gods and goddesses who don’t use a quality sunscreen regularly. Reduce the odds of developing this condition by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of between 15 and 50.
Skin repair options
If the sun has already damaged your skin and you’ve been screened for skin cancer, DermSurgery offers a variety of effective treatments that can make your skin look young and healthy again. Here are a few of the treatments that are popular and effective for people who seek a positive improvement in their appearance:
- Fraxel
- Ablative laser skin resurfacing
- PicoSure
- Photodynamic therapy
- Q-Switched Ruby Laser & Nd:Yag Laser
DermSurgery Associates of Houston wants to remind everyone that National women’s Check-Up Day is Monday, May 8, and National women’s Health Week begins on that day. Additionally, the entire month of May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Let this month be a reminder to kick off a healthy skin regimen, which includes using good broad-spectrum sunscreen, having annual skin checks and looking into safe and effective treatments for sun-damaged skin.
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DermSurgery Associates is a Greater Houston area dermatology practice offering cosmetic, surgical and non-invasive dermatology treatments with industry-leading physicians trained and experienced with the most current dermatology technologies and procedures. For more information, contact
DermSurgery Associates
7515 Main, Suite 240
Houston, TX 77030
ph. 713.791.9966
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