Walking outdoors requires sun protection. Walking outdoors on a beautiful sunny day is my favorite pastime. In the midwest summer is just a few months out of the year so during that time most midwesterners try to get outside as much as possible.
If you enjoy the feel of the sun on your skin then you’re not alone. The sun on our skin can feel warm and soothing but let’s not forget to protect your skin. When you’re outside for an extended period of time remember to slather on the sun tan lotion. The sun’s ray can be harmful, if you skin feels hot or you experience a burning sensation get out of the sun.
Pay special attention if you have any of the following conditions:
- Freckles
- Fair skin
- Blond, red or light brown hair
Sun Protection
Limit your exposure to the sun. UV rays are the strongest between 10am and 4pm. If you are not sure how strong the suns rays are then try this test. If your shadow is shorter than you are then that’s a good indicator that the UV rays may be to strong.
Use sunscreen everyday even when it’s cloudy, enough to fill a small shot glass is recommended.
I’m a fan of natural sun protectants and prefer to layer natural oils and moisturizers that contain sunscreen. Even my make up brand, Bare Minerals, contain sunscreen.
Hats are not just for being glamorous. Hair is not sufficient coverage from the sun. Hats provides the best protection covering the scalp, neck, ears, forehead and nose. Although baseball hats cover the scalp, forehead and eyes, a hat with a large brim will work better. Sometimes I wear both depending on how long I’ll be in the sun.
Sunlight contains UV (ultraviolet radiation which can cause premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, cataracts and cancer of the skin.
The amount of damage from UV exposure depends on the strength of the light, length of exposure and weather the skin was protected.
The bad news is that there is no safe suntans, so when the sun’s bright, bring out the sun tan lotion.
Did you know that sunglasses have a purpose other than fashion. For broad spectrum protection I prefer to wear sunglasses and a hat.
Damage from the sun can result in macular degeneration which is the leading cause of blindness.
Cataracts which is a clouding of the eye lens effects clarity of vision. If left untreated, cataracts can result in blindness.
Wear UV absorbent shades. They should block between ninety nine and one hundred percent of UV rays.
For added protection, cover up with tightly woven clothing.
Benefits of Sunlight
Sunlight exposure allows your body to produce Vitamin D. Vitamin D leads to higher serotonin levels the feel good hormone. Vitamin D regulates a thousand different genes that control tissues in the body, so stock up on vitamin D to prevent deficiency in winter months.
There have been studies that show a link between low vitamin D levels and colorectal and breast cancer.
According to research raising the serum level was found to be ideal for cancer prevention which means sufficient exposure to sunlight may decrease your chances of certain cancers.
Another good thing about sunlight.
Skin that is exposed to the UV rays release a compound called nitric oxide that lowers blood pressure.
Did you know that your amount of daylight exposure is vital in maintaining a normal circadian rhythm for a good nights sleep. The normal sleep wake cycle is contingent on morning sunlight to help you sleep at night.
The winter months can bring the winter blues but sunlight can enhance your mood.
Regular sunlight exposure can naturally improve your mood making you feel alert and increase activity without drugs
For more information contact the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.
