Are Your Protecting Yourself?

  • Published
  • By Rebecca Small
  • Health and Wellness Technician
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Even on overcast days, 80 percent of ultraviolet rays can penetrate through the clouds, damaging skin.

Why is sun protection necessary? Ultraviolet rays produce genetic mutations that damage skin and potentially lead to skin cancer, eye damage, skin aging and a suppressed immune system.

UVB and UVA , the most damaging of the sun's rays, are the most extreme from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. , April through October.

However, this does not mean that people are safe from the dangers of the sun during the rest of the year.

What can be done to avoid the dangers of UV rays? Dress appropriately.

Wear light weight, light colored clothing, long sleeve shirt, long pants and a hat. Eye protection is extremely important. Between 5 and 10 percent of skin cancers occur on the eyelid. In addition, UV radiation can lead to eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. In order to avoid these diseases, choose sunglasses with a UV block.

Choosing the correct sunscreen is also very important. When selecting a sunscreen, look for those that are SPF of 15 or higher, protect against UVA and UVB, and look for ingredients that include zinc oxide, ecamsule, octocrylene and avobenzone. These must be applied to all exposed skin. When outside, reapply every two hours, more often if taking part in physical activity or water sports.

If someone accidentally gets burned, there are some measures that can decrease the discomfort:

· Drink water
· Take acetaminophen for headache and/or slight fever or chills
· Take a cool bath in tepid water to soothe and cool the skin
· Apply a moisturizer
· Stay out of the sun until the burn fades
· Avoid future burns

Food for thought:
According to Dr. Zoe Draelos, clinical associate professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, "Sunburn literally cooks the protein in the skin." When put that way lying in the sun may not be quite as appealing.

As an alternative to a traditional tan, there are many products available for providing a healthy sun-kissed look. Instead of skipping the sun screen next time you're out, utilize the safety measure's provided above and apply a tinted moisturizer or get a spray tan.

For more information regarding sun safety, contact the HAWC at 731-4292 or speak with a member of the HAWC staff in person to pick up a free sample of an FDA approved sunscreen.