The Vital Role of UV Protection
Summertime in the Southland means fun in the sun. But shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is paramount.
Words by Maggie Downs
Life in Southern California has its perks: picturesque landscapes, clear skies, and an abundance of sunshine. Unfortunately, the relentless sun also brings an invisible threat — ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Protecting your skin from UV rays is crucial, not just for maintaining youthful looks, but for safeguarding your health. By embracing a multifaceted approach to sun safety, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing your risk of skin damage and cancer.
Did you know July is National UV Safety Month — a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services initiative whose goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of UV rays to the skin and eyes? This issue is especially important for all of us living in Southern California. So please, read on…
The Perils of UV Radiation
UV radiation, primarily from the sun, consists of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, causing premature aging and wrinkles. UVB rays, on the other hand, are responsible for sunburn.
Both types can damage the DNA in skin cells, potentially leading to skin cancer. Our sun-drenched climate means increased exposure, making UV protection a daily necessity, says Dr. Silas Gyimah, associate chief medical officer at DAP Health.
Sunscreen: Your First Line of Defense
Sunscreen is a vital tool in your UV protection arsenal. Dr. Gyimah recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 50, reapplied every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Broad-spectrum sunscreens shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, providing comprehensive protection. It’s important to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including often-missed areas like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Parenting an infant? Sunscreen should be avoided in children younger than six months, says Dr. Gyimah, but alternate methods of protection — like dressing the baby in loose clothing that covers the skin, and staying in the shade — will suffice.
Sun Protection for All Skin Tones
A common misconception is that people with darker skin tones don’t need sun protection, which is dangerously misleading, says Dr. Gyimah. While it’s true that higher levels of melanin in darker skin provide some natural protection against UV radiation, it is not sufficient to prevent UV damage.
“Because of that mindset, we tend to see a lot of skin cancers in Black folks more than other populations,” he says. “Everyone should be going through the basic protection mechanisms from the sun.”
Also note that there are special formulations of broad-spectrum sunscreen especially made for those with darker skin. Meaning, the product won’t leave a white residue.
Comprehensive UV Protection Strategies
While sunscreen is essential, it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. To fully safeguard your skin, combine several UV protection strategies. Seek shade during peak sun hours — typically between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. — when the sun’s rays are the strongest. And use UV-blocking window film or shades in your home and car to reduce indoor UV exposure.
Wearing protective clothing — such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses — can also significantly reduce your exposure. Many outdoor enthusiasts in Southern California opt for clothing specifically designed with built-in UV protection.
“Keep in mind that protection is necessary even on overcast days and indoors,” says Dr. Gyimah. “Any protection is better than none.”
The Role of Regular Skin Checks
In addition to preventive measures, regular skin checks are crucial. Perform monthly self-examinations to look for new or changing moles or spots, talk to your doctor about any concerns, and schedule annual skin exams with a dermatologist.
Early detection of skin changes can significantly improve the prognosis if skin cancer does develop.
Have a happy — and safe — sunny summer!