Staying safe in the sun: Experts explain how to prevent sunburn and skin damage
With dangerous heat and intense UV rays rising on the Coast, experts say just a short time in the sun can lead to serious health risks.
WXXV News 25’s Asia Ellis has the important steps you need to take to protect yourself before heading outdoors.
Whether you’re spending time at the beach or just enjoying the sunshine, protecting your skin should be a priority to help prevent long-term damage from excessive sun exposure.
With temperatures climbing and UV levels remaining high this summer, many people are finding ways to enjoy the outdoors and stay cool, but too much sun exposure can lead to painful sunburns and skin damage. Sunburn patient Mia Broussard said, “It was a like a five-day trip and I put SPF-30 sunscreen on only once. It didn’t really last all day and I left it at home so I wasn’t able to reapply. I started peeling the second day and after that I didn’t reapply at all because it started burning. So, I started peeling, and I got more sunburned each day. So now it’s everywhere, it hurts, and it stings.”
The effects of sun exposure go beyond what you see on the surface and it can lead to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Dermatologist Marisa Stringer said, “Unfortunately, we love the sun, but it doesn’t love us back. So, every time we’re out, the sun is basically pinging us with radiation and overtime those cells will start to turn sick. Even if you don’t burn, the aging rays of the sun are going to affect your skin still negatively and can still cause cancer.”
Experts recommend applying broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher before heading outside, reapplying every two hours, and using extra protection like hats, sunglasses, and shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
What you wear can also make a big difference. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing allows air to circulate more freely, helping your body stay cooler and reducing the risk of heat rash caused by excessive sweating and trapped moisture.
