Summertime is all about sunshine, but the sun’s rays can wreak havoc on your skin. How can you enjoy your outdoor activities without putting your skin at risk?
At Dr. McKenna’s Orthopedics and Biologics in Dallas and Trophy Club, Texas, Dr. Wade McKenna provides skin rejuvenation treatment, and warns patients about the dangers of over-exposure to the sun. Here are his recommendations for saving your skin from harm this summer.
Slather on the Sunscreen
The first line of defense against harmful UV rays is sunscreen. Look for a product that offers broad spectrum protection and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Always use sunscreen — even if it’s cloudy outside — and put it on 15-20 minutes before leaving the house for best protection.
Apply sunscreen liberally. Most Americans don’t use enough sunscreen and miss critical areas like the face, ears, and the tops of their feet. You should be using at least an ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) per application, and reapplying liberally every two hours, or every hour if you are sweating or swimming. Also use a 30+ SPF lip balm.
Seek the Shade
Restrict your outdoor time to hours when the sun isn’t high in the sky. Typically, this means you should try to stay indoors or in a protected shaded spot between the hours of 10am and 2pm. Use sunglasses, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants or skirts, and don a hat to help provide shade for yourself if you must be out during the sunniest time of day.
Even if it’s cool and cloudy, be aware that the UV rays can pass through the cloud layer and the ground surface and bounce back and forth between sand and water, increasing your risk of serious sunburn. You might not notice your skin slowly roasting if there’s a cool breeze.
Monitor Your Medications
Certain types of medications or cosmetic procedures can make you significantly more prone to sunburn. These include but aren’t limited to:
- Medications: antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antifungals, blood pressure medications, acne medications, and chemotherapy drugs
- Procedures: skin treatments, including laser hair removal, exfoliation using a laser, skin resurfacing, or skin tightening
When you see Dr. McKenna for skin rejuvenation, he goes over your aftercare and lets you know the best way to protect your skin after a treatment. You can still enjoy your sunny vacation — just take sensible precautions to avoid damage to your skin.
To book an appointment at Dr. McKenna’s Orthopedics and Biologics, contact either of our locations or use our handy online booking tool to schedule a time that’s convenient for you.
