Prolonged sun exposure this spring and summer could have far-reaching consequences that go beyond just the irritation of painful, sunburned skin. However, by taking simple steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of skin damage. Some of the precautions I recommend include conducting monthly self-examinations, reapplying sunscreen lotion with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater every two hours while outdoors and forgoing sunbathing or trips to the tanning bed.
Skin cancer, which affects more people in the United States than any other form of cancer, is one of the only known cancers that can be greatly reduced or prevented by avoiding certain environmental factors. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause severe aging effects and cellular damage to sun-exposed skin.
It is especially important for you to take special precautions when you’ll be out in the sun for several hours. Whether it is a trip to the lake, watching a little league baseball game on a Saturday afternoon or mowing the lawn, it is important that you protect yourself and your family from excess sun. The period from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is when ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays are the strongest. If you will be outside during these times, a baseball cap or hat, sunscreen applied 30 minutes prior to outside activities and protective clothing that covers exposed areas is strongly suggested.
An SPF of 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays, which are the rays that cause sunburn, and SPF 30 blocks 96 percent of UVB rays. You should choose a product that also protects against ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays, which are the rays that cause skin to age. These types of sunscreens are labeled “broad spectrum” sunscreens.
Sunscreen should include titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to best combat the sun’s ultraviolet rays and should be reapplied after getting out of water, even if the lotion is waterproof. The two most common areas susceptible to sun are the top of the ears and neck. Many children’s sunscreens are now formulated as sprays, which makes them easier to apply, but it’s also important to note that spray-on tanning products offer no protection from the sun.
People with eczema are often concerned about protecting their skin from the sun and finding a sunscreen that does not irritate their eczema. More than 30 million Americans have eczema, and while there is no cure, in most cases, it is manageable. Some people find that their eczema improves with exposure to sunlight, while others experience a worsening of their condition.
Many people have eczema on their elbows or behind their knees. Eczema symptoms often become less severe as children grow into adults. Generally, people with eczema suffer from dry, sensitive skin. Eczema is also known for its intense itch.
Certain drugs, chemicals and even plants can cause the skin to become sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, if you develop eczema or your eczema becomes significantly worse after sun exposure, check with your doctor to see if this could be due to your medication or some other cause.
The following are additional tips on sunscreen from the National Eczema Society:
• Check the expiration date on the sunscreen. Nearly full bottles of opened sunscreen can normally be kept for a year, provided they are stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, avoiding extremes of temperature with the lid tightly closed. Throw away your sunscreen if there is only a little left or it has separated or been contaminated.
• Follow the instructions on the pack and apply the product generously – most people apply too little sunscreen for it to be effective.
• Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours during the day and after swimming.
• Nothing blocks 100 percent of the sun’s rays, so you should also use protective clothing and hats, in addition to sunscreen.
• To avoid ‘frying,’ do not apply too much greasy tanning oils, etc.
For more information about finding a primary care physician or dermatologist, please call Eskenazi Health at 317-880-8687. Eskenazi Health Center has a sliding fee schedule and is open to all regardless of ability to pay.
Nydia Nuñez-Estrada, M.D.
Family Medicine
Eskenazi Health Center North Arlington