Although you may feel healthier with a bit of a tan…your skin sure does not! The sunlight that warms our bones and makes flowers grow contains UV radiation. Too much UV radiation can damage the skin.
Exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation from sunlight can lead to:
To help protect your skin when you are in the sun, follow these simple tips:
The US Environmental Protection Agency and the National Weather Service put out the UV Index, a daily report on the UV radiation levels in different areas in the country. Here is how to interpret the number:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.aad.org/
The Skin Cancer Foundation
http://www.skincancer.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Dermatology Association
http://www.dermatology.ca/english/
Canadian Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.ca/
References:
American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: http://www.aad.org .
Dennis LK, et al. Sunscreen use and the risk for melanoma: a quantitative review. Ann Intern Med . 2003; 139(12): 966-78.
The Skin Cancer Foundation website. Available at: http://www.skincancer.org/ .
United States Environmental Protection Agency website. Available at: http://www.epa.gov/ .
Last reviewed April 2010 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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