Damage from the sun leads to dry skin, early wrinkles, skin cancer and other problems. Suntans and sunburns are visible examples of sun damage; there is no such thing as a healthy tan. The more frequent the sun exposure and the earlier the age that the exposure began, the greater the chance of skin problems from sun damage later in life.
Instructions
1. Time your outside work and play to avoid the strongest sun. The sun is strongest in the middle of the day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Do outside work and other activities before this period to avoid the strongest sun.
2. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every time you go outside, even if the sun does not seem strong. Put plenty of sunscreen on all skin that is exposed to the sun and rub it into your skin well. Reapply every hour if you are sweating or swimming.
3. Cover up as much of your skin as possible to protect it from sun damage. Wear a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and loose-fitting, lightweight long-sleeve shirts and long pants.
4. Be happy with your skin whatever color it is. Whether you tan in the natural sunlight or at a tanning salon, you are still exposing your skin to the same damaging rays, so avoid tanning if at all possible.
5. Moisturize your skin after being exposed to the sun to help offset some of the damage. It is also a good idea to moisturize your skin daily at bedtime to offset all incidental sun exposure your skin receives during the day.
Tags: your skin, avoid strongest, from damage, outside work