Sun Exposure and Its Risks

The majority of people love to bask in the sun for that nice dark even glow. However, did you know that too much sun exposure is putting your skin at risk? Too much sun exposure can lead to serious health complications later on as we continue to age. Too much sun exposure can cause genetic mutations, premature wrinkles, sunburns, photodermatitis (an irritated, inflamed rash that appears on the skin after sun exposure) discoloration of the skin and ultimately can lead to skin cancer.

Sunrays contain three different forms of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are entirely absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere. UVA and UVB rays mostly absorbed by the atmosphere but still penetrate the earth’s surface. Exposure to UVA and UVB can cause precancerous and cancerous growths, premature wrinkles, freckles, sunburns and destruction of collagen tissues. UVA and UVB are not only found in forms of sun rays but can be found in common everyday objects such as UVA rays are used in tanning beds.

To prevent risks of sun exposure, it is advised to wear broad-sunscreen protection of spf 30 or above. Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours making sure you are protected at all times. However, not everyone is comfortable wearing sunscreen. Most people complain that sunscreens feel oily, heavy and messy. Today, there are a variety of options that make applying sunscreen more like putting on a body lotion. Additionally, some sunscreens come with zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is an essential ingredient that helps protect you from UVA and UVB It also can help with the wound healing process and can be soothing to the skin.

Here at Center for Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery, we advise patients who have been exposed to excessive sun, have frequently used tanning beds, have a personal or family history of skin cancer, have fair skin or have a genetic predisposition for skin cancer or have atypical spots to come in for a full gowning. At Center for Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Harold F. Farber, M.D. has over 30 years of experience detecting and diagnosing atypical lesions. Dr. Harold F. Farber M.D. has a keen eye on noticing any atypical changes of lesions you may not notice yourself. Early treatment can save a lot of potential problems in the future.

If you or someone you know is concerned about any lesion changes that may be linked to sun exposure, do not wait. Call Center for Dermatology, Laser and Cosmetic Surgery to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harold F. Farber, M.D. or his associates.