Age and a lifetime of exposure to the sun takes its toll on our skin. Over time our skin no longer looks full and smooth as it once did. Let’s look at some skin problems and ways you can protect your skin and make it feel and look better.
Skin and the Sun
Skin damage from the sun is due to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light, which breaks down elastic tissue in the skin and causes the skin to stretch, sag, wrinkle, and become blotchy. In addition the sun is a major contributor to pre-cancerous growths and skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.
Sunscreen
Sunscreens help shield you from the sun’s dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays in two ways. Some work by scattering the light, reflecting it away from your body. Others absorb the UV rays before they reach your skin.
Choose a good sunscreen with “broad spectrum” on the label. Sunscreens are rated by their sun protection factor (SPF). Look for a sunscreen with an SPF number of 15 or higher. Contrary to common sense, SPF 30 is not twice as strong as SPF 15. While SPF 15 filters out 93 percent of UVB ultraviolet rays, SPF 30 only filters out 97 percent.
Dry Skin
You may notice as you get older that your skin becomes dryer and thinner. As we age we have fewer sweat and oil glands. We also lose underlying fat in the skin so it becomes thinner. Thinner skin has more difficulty retaining moisture. Other causes for dry skin include:
• Not drinking enough liquids
• Being in very dry air
• Smoking
• Exposing your skin to the sun
• Feeling stress
• Having specific health problems, such as diabetes
• Taking some medications that cause drying of the skin
Skin Health Tips
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated. When your body is hydrated,
so is your skin.
• Keep your skin clean. Use warm (not hot) water to preserve the natural oils.
Use mild soap. Gently cleanse; don’t scrub. Pat dry.
• Apply a moisturizer right after you bathe to seal in moisture and soothe
dry, itchy skin.
• Limit time in the sun. Try to stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Even on a grey, overcast day, up to 80 percent of the dangerous UV rays still make it through the clouds.
• Use sunscreen.
• Wear protective clothing. Wear sunglasses, a wide brim hat, and loose, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants or skirts to protect yourself from the sun.
For more healthy aging in summer wellness information, contact Oscar Lugo at Summerhill Villa at 661-254-9933 or visit us at www.mbkseniorliving.com.