UV AWARENESS MONTH SHINES A LIGHT ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Ultraviolet light may seem like a bit of an alphabet soup.  Basically, there are two types that dermatologists warn us about, UVA (the “deep” player) and UVB (the “bad” player).  They both sound concerning, right?  Each brings its own set of concerns for your skin, making it crucial to understand their effects.

The more you know about ultraviolet light, the more power you gain over skin damage that can lead to premature aging and cancer.  July is UV Awareness month, created to help you gain knowledge and make your best choices about protection for your skin.

 WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UVA AND UVB RAYS?

When it comes to UV light, two main types connect with our skin: UVA and UVB. While they differ slightly, both have the potential to cause skin damage.

UVA Rays:

1. Longer wavelength: These rays penetrate deeply into the skin.
2. Aging: Primarily associated with skin aging.

UVB Rays:

1. Shorter wavelength: These high energy rays only reach the skin’s surface.
2. Burning and Melanoma: Responsible for sunburns and melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.

In general, UV radiation harms the skin by damaging the DNA in skin cells. This can lead to mutations, causing premature aging and, in the worst cases, skin cancer.

Understanding the differences between UVA and UVB rays can help you better protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Always remember to wear sunscreen and take other sun safety measures to keep your skin healthy and beautiful.

THINK DEEP:  HOW UVA AFFECTS YOUR SKIN’S HEALTH AND APPEARANCE

Both the sun and tanning beds emit ULTRAVIOLET A, making up over 90% of the UV energy we encounter. Even though they’re less intense than UVB rays, UVA rays penetrate deeper into your skin. Unprotected exposure to UVA leads to:

• Skin Damage: UVA rays cause your skin to darken in self-defense, leading to a tan. Unfortunately, this tan is a sign of skin damage, even from tanning beds.

• Photoaging: These rays dive deep, causing early wrinkles and signs of aging.

• DNA Damage: UVA rays can damage DNA, leading to some types of skin cancer.

UVA rays are strong year-round and can penetrate windows and clouds, so sun protection is essential every day.

Pro tip:  While your car’s front windshield blocks UVA rays, side windows and sunroofs usually don’t. Beware of added sun exposure while on that driving vacation this summer and don’t forget the sunscreen!

THINK DANGER:  HOW UVB AFFECTS SKIN HEALTH AND APPEARANCE

Damage from Ultraviolet B light penetrates the outermost layer of the skin. They are a high energy threat to you and your skin and if you don’t stay protected, they might just result in painful damage:

• Sunburn damage: UVB rays damage the skin’s surface, causing tanning but also sunburn. Severe sunburn can lead to blistering and even permanent scarring.

• Cancer Damage: By damaging skin cell DNA, UVB rays are responsible for several types of skin cancer, including the most dangerous one, malignant melanoma.

• Wrinkle Damage: While UVB rays are more commonly linked to skin cancer, they also contribute to fine lines and wrinkles from sun exposure.

The intensity of UVB rays varies with the seasons. They are strongest during the sunniest months but can still cause damage in winter, especially when reflected off surfaces like ice or snow.

Pro tip:  Whether you are on the water or hitting the slopes, protection from ultraviolet is a must.  Grab your sunscreen and review sun safety rules.

THINK BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN FOR PROTECTION FROM BOTH

The only way to ensure your skin is protected from UVA and UVB damage is to stay out of the sun. But of course, not many people comply with total sun abstinence.  Another way to stop sun damage is through the regular use of sunscreen.  And to protect against both UVA and UVA sunlight, be sure to choose “broad-spectrum” sunscreen.  You’ll lower your risk for skin cancer and aging all in the time it takes to apply it to your face and all other exposed areas.

Another option is to wear protective clothing.   Protective clothing is more effective than sunscreen. Choose tightly woven fabrics and wide-brimmed hats that are UPF rated. Think you’ve got it covered with your favorite tee?  Think again, a regular t-shirt has an spf of about 5.

THINK SPF AND KNOW WHAT IT STANDS FOR

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, indicating how long sunscreen protects you from sunburn compared to unprotected skin. For example, SPF 15 means you can be in the sun 15 times longer with sunscreen before burning. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to achieve the labeled SPF—use about a shot glass worth to cover your body.

Modern sunscreens are lightweight and fragrance free with options for virtually everyone:

• Acne-Prone Skin: Oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas.
• Sporty Skin: Water-resistant options.
• Aging Skin: With hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
• Travelers: Reef-safe and travel-sized options.

Need help choosing the right sunscreen or developing a protection plan? Call us at (402) 933-0800 for a consultation or visit midwestderm.com.  Ready to shop for the perfect sunscreen?  Visit our shop page at midwestderm.com.