Charlotte dermatologists warn about sun protection
Dermatologists are always concerned this time of year. We are so deep into summer and most of us have gotten through the hottest days without a major sunburn. Soon we can expect a few overcast days to come our way; certainly, some overcast mornings. Dermatologists are concerned because everyone is so conditioned to protecting ourselves when the sun is high, but on the occasional overcast day, Men tend to sit at the poolside without a shirt, women still wear their bare-shouldered sun dresses, and few of us wear sunscreen at all. It is perfectly human to apply vigilant sun protection when the sun is shining intensely, and we tend to overlook the fact that sun protection is necessary every day, regardless of the weather or the time of year.
UV rays are always on the job
Even when it’s overcast, UV rays that cause our skin to age and that causes skin cancer are bombarding our skin. Without adequate protection, you can sustain sun damage just as easily on cloudy days. Understandably, UVB rays (the type that causes sunburn) are the strongest in the summer. However, UVB rays rarely take a day off, and can burn and/or damage your skin year-round. This is especially true at high altitudes and around reflective surfaces such as a pool or reflective glass. When you are on or in the water, your skin receives a double dose of ultraviolet light. The rays that come directly from the sun and the same rays reflected off the water. This greatly increases your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.UVA rays penetrate deep into the top layer of skin. They are dangerous because they can penetrate through clouds and fog. UVA rays can also penetrate glass. This means that it is possible to damage your skin while sitting indoors near a window.
Don’t take a day off from sun protection
Your first line of defense against sun damage is through clothing. Remember that on those warm, overcast days, the face, head and neck tend to remain exposed. It is no coincidence that this is also where most skin cancers occur. Try to avoid the peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM and seek shade whenever you can. Protecting your skin from the sun on overcast days reduces your risk of developing the most common type of cancer.
A top dermatologist in Charlotte, NC
Perhaps you are one of the millions of people who have prematurely damaged skin because of excessive exposure to UV rays. If you are finding it difficult to live with your damaged skin,and you live in or near the South Charlotte NC area, you can experience full-service dermatology.
Metrolina dermatology offers medical, surgical, cosmetic dermatology; as well as Mohs micrographic surgery. Dr. Sasha Haberle and her staff provide customized care for the treatment of patients of all ages and skin conditions. Dr. Haberle is recognized as an expert in all areas of dermatology, including medical, cosmetic, and surgical care. She is a Board-Certified dermatologist and Fellowship trained Mohs surgeon. Call the friendly staff at Metrolina Dermatology today to schedule appointment. They welcome new patients and will help you develop a plan for cosmetic dermatology treatment of your aging skin conditions.
160
Rating:
