We’re Always Exposed to the Sun. How Much is Safe?
Here in Florida, we’re always exposed to the sun. It is called the Sunshine State, after all! While some sun exposure provides vitamin D and mood-boosting benefits, there is a limit to the amount of sun that your skin can safely take.
Ultraviolet Radiation From The Sun
UVA and UVB rays from the sun are powerful enough to reach the Earth’s surface. UVB rays pose a high risk of skin cancer, while UVA rays can lead to skin aging, including wrinkles and a decrease in skin elasticity.
When the melanin in your skin absorbs UV rays from the sun, skin damage and hyperpigmentation can result. Sunburns occur when the melanin in the skin doesn’t provide enough protection for the amount of UV damage that your skin sustains.
How Much Sun Exposure is Too Much?
Your skin type can dictate how long you can stay in the sun before getting a sunburn. For example:
- People with very light skin, red or strawberry blond hair, and blue or gray eyes often get sunburned within 10 minutes of sun exposure.
- People with light skin, blond or brown hair, and any eye color often get sunburned within 20 minutes of sun exposure.
- People with light/light brown skin, dark blond or brown hair, and gray or brown eyes often get sunburned within 30 minutes of sun exposure.
- People with light brown/olive-colored skin, dark brown hair, and brown or dark brown eyes often get sunburned within 50 minutes of sun exposure.
- People with dark brown/black skin, dark brown or black hair, and dark brown eyes typically only get sunburned after over 60 minutes of being in the sun.
Protecting Your Skin Against Sun Exposure
It’s crucial to protect your skin against UV radiation from the sun by applying sunscreen with at least SPF30 to any exposed skin when outdoors, even if it’s cloudy. Additionally, wear protective clothing whenever you can and avoid being in the sun around midday when the UV rays are the most intense.
Being exposed to the sun can lead to skin damage and adverse reactions if you’re receiving laser hair removal treatments. So, it’s crucial to avoid the sun while you’re undergoing laser hair removal. For more information, give us a call today!
