Is the Sun Curse to Your Cleopatra – Like Skin?

Just because its winter season doesn’t mean that the sun isn’t capable of doing any damage! As a matter of fact, the dryness in the weather only adds to the damage.

A small amount of UV rays is good for us. It creates vitamin D, which absorbs calcium. Your body needs calcium to build and maintain healthy bones. But too much sun exposure can be harmful. It can lead to early ageing, eye injuries, skin cancer, etc. Well, much of the damage to our skin caused by sun exposure can be prevented.

Tips to protect your skin from sun:

• Use sunscreen every day. Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside. Also use a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Make sure it is water resistant and has a SPF of 30 or higher. Other sunscreens may help keep you from getting sunburned, but they won’t protect against skin cancer.
• Be extra careful around water and sand. These surfaces reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of getting a sunburn.
• Limit your time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UVB rays are strongest.Practice the shadow rule: if your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are at their strongest, and you should find shade. Even when you are in shade, be sure to protect your skin by using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing.
• If you get sunburn on your skin, apply some aloe vera gel as it’s great for soothing inflamed skin and promoting healing.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses which will help you block UVA and UVB rays, and full sleeves clothes to cover skin that’s exposed to the sun.
• Look for an expiration date on the bottles you buy of sunscreen.
• Be cautious if you are taking medications which may make you more sensitive to the sun. E.g antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, blood pressure medications, etc.