Keeping a Friendly Barrier Between You and the Sun

By Donna Stark

I live in a warm climate where there is sunshine nearly every day of the year, and skin cancer clinics every few miles or so. It is easy to remember the importance of sunscreen here because there never seems to be any escape from the sun’s rays. They are incessant … and most people put on sunscreen every day before they head out the door. On the other hand, it’s also just as easy to forget about sunscreen or forego its daily usage if you live in a climate that actually has seasons and cloudy days. With the exception of the weekend pool parties or the weekly golf outing, most people don’t even think about using sunscreen. But despite its inconvenience, sunscreen is a very necessary item to add to your daily morning routine.

Sunscreen Isn’t Just for the Beach Anymore

No matter where you live, you should be using sunscreen every day, every week, and every month throughout the year. Here are some reasons why.

• Cancer preventer - Many people incorrectly assume that if it’s not hot outside, they don’t need sunscreen. Unfortunately, this false sense of protection can get a lot of people into trouble because it doesn’t matter how hot the temperature is, it only matters how much sun exposure you are getting. And getting too much exposure to the sun will greatly increase your chances of skin cancer.
• Cloudy days don’t protect you - Another incorrect assumption about sun exposure is that you are protected from the sun’s rays by the clouds. Don’t make this mistake … clouds do not equal sun protection. Even if it's cold and rainy, UV rays can still make it to the ground, and believe it or not, some clouds will reflect the rays and actually increase your chances of sunburn.
• Windows don’t protect you - Do you have a long commute? Do you drive a lot? Well, there’s more bad news here. Your car windows won’t protect you either. Sure, they will block out some of the sun’s harmful rays, but some can still get through. And although you may not have the tell-tale sign of skin damage with a sunburn like you would after sitting on a beach all day, the effects of the sun’s rays will show up over time.
• It’s anti-aging - Daily sunscreen use has been shown to prevent signs of aging in the skin by having a significant effect on brown spots and fine lines. It has also been suggested that regular use of sunscreen not only prevents damage but can reverse previous damage as well.

It’s clear that daily use of sunscreen can have an incredible effect on the health of your skin, and with the new products that come out every year, it couldn’t be any easier to add it to your morning routine. So make a wise choice and remember to use this protection every day -- no matter how sunny the day looks.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lubbock, Tex.