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Even though you undoubtedly already know that receiving too much sun is dangerous, especially if you don’t take the proper measures, lying on the beach or by the pool in an attempt to obtain a golden tan may be one of your favorite summertime hobbies.
Dermatologists advise against prolonged sun exposure, but they also acknowledge that people will probably still sunbathe. According to a recent American Academy of Dermatology poll, around two-thirds of Americans stated they got tanned last year. Many people mistakenly think that tanning is safe as long as you don’t burn and that a base tan will prevent sunburns.
“People are going to sunbathe this summer regardless of past sunburns and the fact that ultraviolet light causes skin cancer, including melanoma,” said Dr. Hope Mitchell, a board-certified dermatologist from Ohio. “Recognizing these and other risks associated with sunbathing is imperative.”
According to her, even brief bouts of sun exposure and small sunburns can build up over time and harm your skin.
According to dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Hale, senior vice president of the Skin Cancer Foundation, HuffPost readers are most frequently diagnosed with skin cancer in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology states that it can affect persons of any skin tone and that people with darker complexion are typically diagnosed with it later in life.
Still, skin cancer is avoidable, according to Hale. “It’s simple to use a sunscreen you like, spend as much time in the shade as you can, and have a worry-free summer.”
Here are some things to consider while organizing your next beach vacation, including the truth about sunbathing’s negative effects and the best ways to shield your skin when you’re outside.
How dangerous is tanning?
Sunshine exposure can activate the pleasure region of the brain and cause the release of endorphins, which are sometimes referred to as “feel-good hormones,” according to board-certified dermatologist Carmen Castilla of New York Dermatology Group. “It is true that sunlight can cause addiction in people.”
However, Mitchell noted that skin absorbs UV rays when exposed to the sun. This accelerates the aging process, causing wrinkles and sun spots as well as raising your risk of skin cancer by damaging the DNA in your skin cells.
According to Castilla, melanin—a substance that gives skin its color—protects against UV rays. Thus, the tan you get from the sun is actually your skin’s attempt to shield itself from more UV ray harm.
But in the end, Mitchell said, “it’s a flawed defense mechanism that puts your skin health at risk.” “The short-term benefits of tanning don’t outweigh the long-term risks.”
According to Hale, skin cancer is caused by overexposure to UV light, which is recognized to be a carcinogen.
“We are aware that having five or more sunburns increases your chance of developing melanoma,” a severe type of skin cancer,” she continued. Because it can quickly spread to other organs if treatment is delayed, melanoma is seen as being more deadly.
There is a myth, according to Castilla, that people with darker skin tones don’t get sunburned or get skin cancer because they have higher melanin levels.
“This is completely untrue,” she underlined. Anyone who spends time in the sun is susceptible to sunburns or skin cancer, regardless of skin tone.
The best source of vitamin D is not the sun.
Recently, there has been a lot of discussion regarding vitamin D because studies have shown that many Americans are deficient in it.
Although exposure to sunshine is a natural source of vitamin D, dermatologists advise against spending too much time in the sun to get more of the nutrient. Furthermore, you should always use sunscreen. According to research, using sunscreen probably has little effect on the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D.
Hale stressed that one should always approach sun exposure with skin cancer prevention in mind.
To obtain vitamin D, the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) advises against depending on the sun or indoor tanning. Alternatively, the group recommends dietary sources including dairy and seafood or supplements to boost your consumption.
Instead, dermatologists advise using self-tanners.
If you want a “sun-kissed glow,” Mitchell advises using self-tanners or spray tans as sunless tanning options. “These products give your skin a bronzed look without putting it in danger from UV rays,” the spokesperson stated.
According to Castilla, self-tanners that include erythrulose or dihydroxyacetone (DHA) react with the skin’s outermost layer to produce a transient tan. She said that some products are marketed as “gradual tans,” which denotes that they have lesser quantities of these ingredients and allow you to build color.
Choose skincare products that “prioritize skin health, since the best-looking skin is moisturized and smooth,” according to Hale. She recommends products with hyaluronic acid and natural oils.
For optimal results, Mitchell advised following the product’s instructions.
Here are some tips to follow if you decide to sunbathe, though.
“It’s all about balance and protection when it comes to lounging by the pool or soaking up some extra sun outside,” Mitchell added.
According to her, the first step in doing this is applying a lot of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. According to Hale, look for sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection, which shields you from UVA and UVB radiation.
According to Castilla, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, including the back of your neck, the tips of your ears, and the bottoms of your feet. “Traveling on sunburned feet is the worst thing ever.”
Reapply sunscreen more regularly if you’re exercising, swimming, or towel-drying your skin, but at least every two hours, according to Mitchell.
In addition to using sunscreen, Hale advised taking breaks in the shade and using sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun protection apparel. Additionally, sip lots of water.
“In conclusion, treat your skin with care by routinely monitoring for any changes,” Mitchell said. “As the largest organ in your body, your skin deserves the utmost care and protection for your general health and well-being.”
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OK, But Is Sunbathing Really THAT Bad? Here’s The Realistic Answer (msn.com)
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