Podcast Summary
Applying sunscreen correctly is crucial for skin health: Apply generously and evenly, reapply every two hours to protect against skin cancer and sunburn
While enjoying the sun during summer is wonderful, it's crucial to apply sunscreen correctly to protect ourselves from the serious dangers of UV radiation. Despite its importance, many people still make mistakes when using sunscreen, increasing the risk of skin cancer. According to NPR science correspondent Allison Aubrey, over 80,000 people in the US are diagnosed with melanoma annually, and more than 8,000 people die from this type of cancer. Additionally, there are millions of cases of basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and about 90% of these skin cancers are linked to sun exposure. So, next time you step out into the sun, remember to apply sunscreen generously and evenly, about an ounce for the entire body, and reapply every two hours. It's a simple step that could make a significant difference in your health.
Common sunscreen application mistakes: Check expiration date, apply enough sunscreen, apply before sun exposure, reapply every two hours, cover all exposed areas
While choosing the right sunscreen is important, avoiding common mistakes in application is even more crucial for effective sun protection. Sunscreen with expired active ingredients, insufficient application, application too late or too early, forgetting to reapply, missing often-forgotten areas like the ears and the back of the neck, and using sunscreen infrequently are common mistakes that undermine the effectiveness of sunscreen. To ensure optimal sun protection, it's recommended to check the expiration date, apply enough sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass for the body and a nickel-sized amount for the face), apply it at least 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating, and cover all exposed areas, including the ears, neck, and the back of the neck.
Understanding Sunscreen: Chemical vs Physical Protection: Choose between chemical and physical sunscreens based on safety concerns and skin type. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation and form a protective film, while physical sunscreens stay on the skin's surface and physically block the sun. Physical sunscreens are generally safer and better for sensitive skin.
Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, despite the potential costs or concerns about certain active ingredients. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves various chemical compounds, like oxybenzone and avobenzone, for use in sunscreens. These chemicals form a protective film on the skin and absorb UV radiation. However, there's uncertainty about their safety, as some studies suggest they can enter the bloodstream. Broad spectrum sunscreens offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Alternatively, physical or mineral sunscreens made from zinc oxide and titanium dioxide stay on the skin's surface and physically block the sun. These options are generally considered safer due to their inert nature and reduced likelihood of entering the bloodstream. Dermatologists recommend physical sunscreens for people with sensitive skin, as they may not cause breakouts. Ultimately, the risks of sunburn far outweigh the potential risks of sunscreen chemicals.
Protecting the environment with mineral sunscreens: Mineral sunscreens with high zinc oxide content are eco-friendly and essential for coral reefs. Apply about an ounce and a half for the body and a teaspoon for the face, ensuring full coverage.
Mineral sunscreens, especially those with high zinc oxide content, are better for the environment, particularly when it comes to protecting coral reefs and marine life. Another important point is that the amount of sunscreen applied is more crucial than the sun protection factor (SPF). The recommended amount is about an ounce and a half for the body and a teaspoon for the face. It's essential to apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas adequately. Spray sunscreens can be less effective due to the difficulty in gauging the amount applied. SPF 30 provides sufficient protection, blocking out about 97% of UV rays, and higher SPFs offer only minimal additional benefits.
Sunscreen Protection is Essential: Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, even on cloudy days, and use water-resistant sunscreen during activities like swimming or sweating. Infants under six months should be kept out of the sun entirely, and when they must be outside, they should wear protective clothing. Sunscreen is crucial for everyone to prevent skin damage and cancer.
Sunscreen protection is essential for all individuals, regardless of skin tone or weather conditions. Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen does not last all day, especially during activities like swimming or sweating. Water-resistant sunscreens offer only about 80 to 90 minutes of protection. Furthermore, cloudy days do not provide a free pass from UV radiation; approximately 80% of UV rays can still penetrate clouds. Therefore, it's crucial to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, even on cloudy days. Infants under six months should be kept out of the sun entirely, and when they must be outside, they should wear protective clothing. Sunscreen is vital for everyone to prevent skin damage and cancer.
Protecting less melanin-rich areas: Check less melanin-rich areas for skin cancer, store sunscreen in cool, dry place, use hats, clothing, parasols, or umbrellas for additional protection, and apply sunscreen regularly.
Protecting your skin from the sun goes beyond slathering on sunscreen on exposed areas. Dermatologist Dr. Oyesanya advises people with darker skin to pay extra attention to checking less melanin-rich areas like the palms, soles, nails, and inner mouth for skin cancer. Moreover, sunscreen should be stored in a cool, dry place as heat degrades its protective components over time. Instead, keep hats, clothing, parasols, or umbrellas in your car for sun protection. These measures, combined with regular sunscreen application, can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable summer experience. Remember, taking care of your skin is crucial for overall health.
Capella University and EasyCater: Partnership for Flexible Growth: Capella University's FlexPath program offers flexible online degree programs, while EasyCater supports restaurant businesses with budgeting tools and invoice payment options. Their partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to growth and development.
Capella University offers flexible online degree programs through its FlexPath learning format, allowing students to earn their degrees at their own pace. Simultaneously, EasyCater, a Capella University sponsor, caters to the needs of over 100,000 restaurants nationwide with budgeting tools and invoice payment options. This partnership showcases Capella's commitment to supporting individuals and businesses in their growth and development. Whether you're pursuing a degree or managing a restaurant business, Capella and EasyCater aim to make the journey smoother and more effective. To learn more about Capella University and its FlexPath program, visit capella.edu. For more information on EasyCater's services, go to easycater.com.
