Do you know how to protect yourself from ultraviolet (UV) rays? Do they usually wear dark glasses that avoid the sun’s annoying reflections, but is this necessary to protect themselves and avoid burns and redness?
Next, we will see some concepts to take into account when taking care of the sun and enjoying the outdoors at the same time.
Measures To Protect Yourself From UV Rays
There are many steps to take to prevent damage from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. We will highlight some of the most important ones.
Wearing A Hat
As confirmed in an article published in The British Journal of Dermatology, wide-brimmed hats are the most suitable. This is because they protect our ears, nose, eyes, scalp, and forehead. All these areas are susceptible to damage by solar radiation, although sometimes we forget about them.
Proper Clothing
When we are outdoors, it is advisable to wear clothing that covers all of our skin. Darker colours provide better protection. These tight-knit fabrics also provide more protection than lighter knit fabrics. Also, dry clothing protects more than wet clothing.
Please note that clothing does not completely block UV rays. If the light is visible through the fabric, UV rays can also pass through the fabric.
Today many textile companies produce UV protection garments. They are usually labelled with an FPU (UV Protection Factor) value on a scale of 15 to 50+. The higher the FPU, the more protection it provides.
Avoid Tanning Beds
People think that the UV rays from this tanning equipment are not harmful, but they are wrong. Sunlamps emit UVA and UVB. This artificial method is associated with an increased risk of developing melanoma, especially if a person starts using it before the age of 30.
If you want to look tan, there are currently several healthy options available, such as self-tanning spray or cream.
The small UV lamps used in manicures to speed up the drying of nail polish also emit UVA rays. For this reason, it is recommended to apply sunscreen to the back of your hands before using it.
Wear Sunglasses With UV Protection
Sunglasses that block UV rays are just as important as other protective measures. The American Academy of Ophthalmology guidelines ensures that these lenses protect the eyes themselves and the delicate parts surrounding them.
- Ideal glasses should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Check the label before you buy to make sure:
- Those that state “UV absorbance up to 400nm” or “Meets ANSI UV Requirements” means that they block at least 99% of UV rays.
- Those that indicate that they are for cosmetic use only block approximately 70%.
If nothing is written on the label, UV protection is not provided. Always look for the ANSI label. Polarized lenses reduce glare, but not this radiation.
Staying In The Shade To Protect Yourself From UV Rays
This simple measure is the best way to limit your exposure to UV radiation. This is especially important from 10 am to 4 pm, when the radiation is most intense.
To test this intensity, you can perform a shadow test: if the shadow is smaller than you, the UV rays are more intense, and it is important to be protected.
Note that clouds do not block UV rays. Therefore, on a cloudy day, you need to protect yourself in the same way.
The beach and snowy areas increase the amount of ultraviolet radiation we receive because they reflect sunlight. Lightning can even pass through water and are most powerful during the spring and summer months. In the case of mountainous areas, the radiation reaches the earth more powerful.
Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a filter that does not block all UV rays. Even when used correctly, some radiation is produced. For this reason, it is a compliment that must be used in conjunction with the rest of the measures mentioned.
The decals on these protectors should be read correctly. It is recommended to use a sodium protection factor (SPF) greater than or equal to 50 and a broad spectrum of protection against UVB and UVA rays.
Those with SPF 50 filter around 98%, and those with SPF 100 around 99%. Therefore, the larger the number, the smaller the difference. No sunscreen provides complete protection.
They are available in many forms:
- Gels.
- Creams.
- Aerosol sprays.
- Lotions
- Ointments.
- Lip balms.
It is also important to check the expiration date of the product before opening it. After opening, it is valid for one year only.
The protector is always placed in front of the makeup, or insect repellent is used. It should be applied to the face, ears, hands, neck, and any body area that is not covered by clothing.
If we will be in the sun, it is recommended to reapply it every 2 hours or after training, working, swimming or playing.
The Importance Of Protecting Yourself From UV Rays
It is important to take into account the basic protection measures to avoid damage caused by UV radiation from the sun, especially during exposure to heat and the sun.
The darker the skin, the better able to protect itself. Therefore, people with light eyes and white, red, or fair skin are the most sensitive. This does not mean that all skin types should wear sunscreen and take the necessary measures.
