Sunscreen, protective clothing, shade all key to skin protection
Protecting your skin from sun damage is too important to leave to unproven claims on certain dietary supplements. Dr. Amy Kassouf says there's no pill or product you can swallow that is scientifically proven for that purpose.
"All of those things that make those claims make them on very poor scientific grounds. So, we still have to go with the things that are proven scientifically effective," said Kassouf, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
The science is clear about what works best. Simply avoiding sun exposure during the middle of the day is the most effective way to prevent skin damage.
Other safe ways to enjoy the outdoors are by wearing clothing labeled with SPF (sun protective factor), sticking to the shade (or providing your own using broad-brimmed hats and umbrellas) and using sunscreen with an SPF number of 30 or higher. Choose those labeled as "broad spectrum" to block the UVA rays present during any daylight exposure.
- Sunscreen 101: Your guide to summer sun protection and sunburn care
- The best sunscreens to prevent sunburn and cancer
"UVA rays are tricky because they can affect your skin even through the clouds or through the windows of your car, and they are present year-round, even in winter," said Dr. Allen Mask, WRAL Health Team physician.
Sun exposure that doesn't result in a burn can still add up over a lifetime. That's another reason why sun-protective clothing makes sense.
Sun protection is especially important for the young. Sunburns from childhood can cause breaks in the skin's DNA. When those people are continually exposed to the sun as they get older, their risk for skin cancer increases.
"Wear your sunscreen. Reapply. Wear your protective clothing," Kassouf said. "They can allow you to stay out and still enjoy your day, enjoy your sports, but yet not damage your skin in the long run."
