Summer is here! Although school has been out for awhile and the weather has been seriously heating up here in Central Texas, today is actually the first official day of summer. And in my massage practice, there is one health problem that I see more than any other every time summer rolls around: sunburn! The skin is the body’s largest organ and the only organ of the body that I, as a massage therapist, directly touch. Since I have such a close relationship with skin, I hate seeing it damaged by something so easily preventable. Unprotected sun exposure causes a myriad of skin problems, including of course, cancer. You already know that you should wear sunscreen, but here are a few specific facts about sun protection that you should also know for a safe and happy summer:
1. There is no such thing as waterproof sunscreen. If you are swimming or sweating you need to reapply sunscreen regularly. Make sure to read the product label for information on how long your sunscreen holds up in water. To be on the safe side, reapply every 45 minutes.
2. Sunscreen does not completely block UV radiation. Other sun protection measures are also required to protect yourself from sun damage. Be sure to avoid sun exposure between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm when the sun’s rays are strongest. Long sleeves and pants are recommended, but are often unbearable in the Texas heat so opt for a seat in the shade rather than the sun and wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
3. Only broad spectrum sunscreen protects against skin cancer. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and all sunscreens protect against them, but both UVB and UVA rays contribute to skin cancer. Only a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” with an SPF of 15 or higher will offer protection from both kinds of harmful sun rays.
4. Sunscreen does not last all day. Sunscreen must be reapplied at least every two hours to remain effective. Don’t apply before you leave the house and assume that you are covered for the entire day. Bring sunscreen with you and be that annoying person who forces everyone to take a sunscreen break (they’ll thank you when they’re older).
5. Sunscreen takes time to activate. Most sunscreens are chemical barriers that need to be applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure in order to be effective. If you are using a natural sunscreen with a physical barrier (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), it will be effective immediately. And yes, experts still agree that you should use a shot glass full of sunscreen to adequately cover your entire body!
6. All exposed skin needs sunscreen. Some of the most common areas for skin cancer to develop are the eyelids, scalp, and ears — areas that receive direct sun on a daily basis, but rarely get protected with sunscreen. It is important to wear a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15 every day and be sure to cover your entire face, ears, and neck. The easiest way to protect your scalp is with a hat although men who are balding should apply sunscreen directly to their heads.
7. Sunglasses should offer UV protection. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes and help reduce incidences of cataracts, but they also help prevent crows feet! Look for sunglasses that offer a UV rating of 100% and remember that darker lenses do not indicate a higher UV rating. Make sure that children’s sunglasses also have a UV rating (many do not). Remember that sunglasses are most effective when worn with a wide brim hat.
Please be aware that a severe sunburn is a contraindication for massage, meaning that I cannot work over that area until the skin has healed. If you find yourself sunburned this summer, drink plenty of water, take a cool oatmeal bath, and apply aloe gel.