Save your summertime skin
Now is the time of year when we want to soak in the
sun and take advantage of the nice weather. Although it’s tempting to bathe in
the warmth of our giant star, there are a few precautions to take to prevent
skin cancer as one in five Americans are likely to get skin cancer by the age
of 70.
Did you know that the skin is the largest organ of
the body and reflects our health and age? In today’s world, there’s more
concern around sun bathing potentially leading to an increase in skin damage
and skin cancer, and rightfully so! Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays can
increase the production of free radicals that can adversely affect the
integrity of collagen in the skin. Over time with this type of exposure, our
skin becomes wrinkled, cracked, aged, and brittle (and for smokers, the effects
are multiplied).
SKIN CANCER
Research suggests that skin cancer is cumulative
over a lifetime and begins with over-exposure throughout one's life and even
serious sunburns during childhood.
We can’t live without the sun - our bodies require
sunlight in order to manufacture Vitamin D needed for calcium absorption,
amongst other important things. As with all matters, everything is healthy in
moderation, and this applies to sun exposure as well. Here are a few helpful
tips and precautions to take when you’re soaking in the summertime sun.
TIPS FOR SAFE SUN EXPOSURE
Use sunscreen - Choose a sunscreen with a
high SPF number for greater protection. Apply it onto your skin fifteen minutes
before you go outside. Don’t forget your nose, ears, neck and even the tops of
your feet! It’s best to ask for help in those hard-to-reach areas such as your
back.
Time is key - Avoid sun exposure when the sun is at its
highest peak in the sky, typically from about 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Staying in
the shade or carrying something light to cover up in is wise.
Gear up - Wear a hat with a wide brim, t-shirt, and
sunglasses that filter ultraviolet rays.
Drink it up - By keeping your body hydrated you can avoid
dehydration and provide moisture for the skin to prevent dryness, cracking, and
aging.
Pop a pill - Vitamins such as A, E, and some antioxidants
help prevent skin damage from the inside. Cod Liver oil and FlaxSeed oil have
also been used to support skin health.
Brush it off - Before you take a shower,
use a dry skin brush. This can open pores and slough off dead skin, allowing
your skin to breathe easily and work more efficiently.
Keep healthy - Some medications we take may have reactions
and side effects when we’re exposed to sunlight. Acupuncture may be able to
provide an alternative to these medications, keeping you healthy, safely and
naturally.
If you want to have fun now, and not worry later, practice good sun sense. You and your skin deserve it.
New York Sports Acupuncture
Dr. Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.
888.375.5444
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