Summer in Atlanta is a time of intense heat and sunshine, with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s or more. The sweltering conditions make it easy for people to get sunburned, even during brief periods outdoors. Unfortunately, sunburn is not just an uncomfortable inconvenience, but also a serious health concern that can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
To combat the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, it is essential to use sunscreen whenever spending time outdoors. Sunscreen is a topical product that helps protect the skin from the sun's UV rays, which are divided into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are responsible for premature aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn and skin damage.
When selecting a sunscreen, it is important to look for one that is broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The sun protection factor (SPF) of a sunscreen indicates how well it blocks UVB rays. A higher SPF number provides more protection. It is recommended to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, especially for outdoor activities.
In addition to SPF, other factors to consider when choosing a sunscreen include water resistance, ingredients, and fragrance. Water-resistant sunscreens are ideal for activities such as swimming or sweating, as they protect for up to 80 minutes in the water. It is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating heavily.
Sunscreen should be applied liberally to all exposed skin, including the face, ears, neck, hands, and feet. It is important to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outdoors, as it takes time for the sunscreen to absorb into the skin. Sunscreen should also be reapplied throughout the day, especially after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
In addition to using sunscreen, there are several other things you can do to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. These include:
Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat
Seeking shade when possible, especially during the peak hours of 10 am to 4 pm
Avoiding tanning beds, as they emit UV rays that can be even more harmful than the sun's rays
Getting regular skin cancer screenings by a dermatologist
By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer, and enjoy the summer sun safely. Remember, sunscreen is an essential part of summer in Atlanta, and it should be applied liberally and often to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.
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