Many people think of sunscreen as something that is needed for summer days at the beach or by the pool, but the fact is that you can be exposed to the sun’s harmful rays during any season and any temperature, even a cloudy day. The sun gives off two rays, UVA and UVB, these are the rays that cause tissue damage, wrinkles to form and even worse, skin cancer.  These wavelengths can penetrate through almost anything therefore, protection from them year round is important. 

In today’s society, most people feel that a suntan is a physical sign of a vital, healthy appearance. In reality, ultraviolet (UV) light causes DNA mutations to occur in the skin, these mutations can lead to cancer.  Exposure to the sun thickens the skin and a tan is the result of skin injury.  Sunscreen can protect the skin from these harmful effects.

It’s wise to get in the habit of using sunscreen and other forms of sun-blocking on a daily basis.  Sunscreen is a topical product that’s applied to the skin to protect against sunburn and the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. Used regularly, you can help prevent skin cancer and photo aging, a change in the skin that gives the appearance of aging.  The best way to protect your skin from ultraviolet light is to wear sunscreen every single day and even more important to develop a sun protection regimen to include protective clothing, hats and sunglasses with UV protection for your retinas.

Be kind to your skin! Turn to self tanning lotions and sprays for a beautiful, healthy glow.

To learn more and become involved with Dr. Gregory Allen’s non-profit organization, The Shun the Sun Foundation, visit  http://www.shunthesun.org.  Deseret Aesthetic and Lifestyle Institute is dedicated to raising awareness and fighting skin cancer.