Damage can happen in as little as 15 minutes when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays reach through the skin to the dermis layer causing sunburn and skin cells to die, damage or develop cancer. Although we are exposed to the sun during all seasons of the year, including winter, most of us are at a higher risk for overexposure to sunlight during the spring and summer.
Some sun exposure is good for us. It creates vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium, and it helps treat health conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, and rickets. Overexposure, however, leads to serious and even deadly sun damage. Regardless of what you’ve heard, skin cancer can be deadly, and anyone can get it.
Learn more about the effects of sun exposure and how to properly protect your skin by visiting the following resources.
Sun Safety | Skin Cancer | CDC
NIOSH Fast Facts: Protecting Yourself from Sun Exposurepdf icon
Have more questions or concerns about damage from sun exposure? Get answers at your next annual check-up. Schedule yours today with AllCare Family Medical Clinic by dialing 662-712-6144.