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How To Protect Your Skin from UV Damage and Premature Aging and Health
When it comes to skin protection, it is important to remember that your first line of defense against ultra violet (UV) rays is sunscreen. This should be used year-round and applied liberally to any exposed areas such as the face, chest, neck, hands, arms and legs. To ensure your skin is adequately protected, it is important to consider the SPF rating. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and the higher the number, the more protection your skin will be afforded.
Wear Protective Clothing
You can also protect your skin by wearing protective clothing designed to filter out UV radiation. Such clothing is manufactured with a special weave to block out harmful rays and is often found in lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen and cotton. You should also try to cover as much of your body as possible, wearing long sleeved T-shirts, trousers or long skirts, and wide-brimmed hats.
Stay in Shaded Areas
Limiting your exposure to the sun is one of the best ways you can protect your skin from UV damage and premature aging. You should look for shade where possible and try to avoid long periods in direct sunlight, particularly between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. This can be a challenge during the summer months, so try to remain indoors during peak hours.
Look Out For Sunburn
While sunscreen is the most effective form of UV protection, it is important to remember that it does not provide complete protection. Sunburn is still possible and should be avoided, so if your skin feels hot, appears pink or inflamed, and you experience discomfort, seek shade as soon as possible.
Moisturize Your Skin
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the skin to become dry and brittle, which can lead to wrinkles and premature aging. To prevent this from happening, it is important to use a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. Make sure the moisturizer you choose contains an SPF, as this will give you dual protection.
Stay Hydrated
Sufficient hydration is also essential for keeping the skin healthy, which is why is it important to drink lots of fluids throughout the day. Water is the best option; however, you can also get hydration from fresh fruits or vegetables.
Avoid Tanning Beds
While many people think that using a tanning bed is a safer alternative to the sun, this is simply not true. Tanning beds also use UV rays that can cause sunburn and premature skin aging and increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your skin from UV damage is essential to maintain its health and youthfulness. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure your skin remains healthy and youthful over time. Try to apply sunscreen liberally and choose a suitable SPF rating, wear protective clothing, limit exposure to direct sunlight, look out for sunburn, use moisturizers, stay hydrated and avoid using tanning beds.
Keywords: Skin protection, UV rays, SPF rating, Sun Protection Factor, protective clothing, limit exposure to direct sunlight, lotion, moisturizers, hydration, tanning beds
