We all love a warm, sunny day. Fortunately for us Dukies, lately we’ve been having a lot of these. While the spring weather definitely makes it more difficult to stay motivated for class, the main problem with these sunny days is unprotected sun exposure itself
Very few young women actually take the necessary precautions in order to avoid harmful sun exposure. Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen every day—not just you’re at the beach, or when you will be outside all day. In addition, they recommend wearing sunscreen everywhere on your body, not just on your face. And that doesn’t necessary mean slathering nasty, goopy white sunscreen all over yourself. Nearly every make-up brand sells tinted moisturizers or foundations with SPF 15 or 30. Similarly, there is a vast array of continuous spray sunscreens out there that are clear, quick, non-greasy, and insanely easy to apply. So, bottom line? There is absolutely no reason to skimp on the SPF on a daily basis.
And if you think it’s a good idea to skimp on sun protection in favor of a tan, think again. There are plenty of ways to achieve that head-to-toe glow without baking in the sun or in a tanning booth. Don’t believe me? Take a trip to Target or Sephora and check out the countless self-tanning products.
Still not convinced? It might be time to rethink whether the risks of sun and UV exposure are worth it in the long-term. Here are a few of the adverse beauty and health outcomes from excess sun exposure:
- First and second degree burns
- Sun spots and skin discoloration
- Loss of skin elasticity, which can lead to premature aging and wrinkles
- Benign tumors
- Skin cancer, including melanoma, the most fatal form of skin cancer
As young women, we have a tendency to think that we are invincible with regards to the risks of sun exposure. The problem is, burns, benign tumors, and skin cancer can happen to anyone, and people who purposely bake in the sun are only upping their risk. In addition, while wrinkles and skin discoloration are naturally unavoidable in the future, shielding your skin from the sun’s rays while you are still young and wrinkle free will preserve your youthful appearance for a longer period of time. So next time you feel like skimping on SPF, reconsider it. The benefits of baking in the sun simply do not outweigh the risks.
Photo Sources:
https://static.webresint.com/images/micro.hostel.com/gallery/34561.jpg
http://www.prevention.com/pvnstatic-assets/images/June_2007/292x232_LB_A_Sunscreen_Love_Affair_06_07.jpg