When people think about sun damage, they usually have a mental picture of chilling by the beach in a bikini. That’s true, of course. But unfortunately, that’s just one tiny portion of the truth. The reality about sun damage is that it occurs in the unlikeliest ways and places. Without the proper protection, you could be harming your skin and eventually your health when you do these normal, everyday routines:
Working in your office
How can doing your job be linked to sun damage? The simple answer is that there are windows in your office. Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays, the ones that trigger premature skin aging and increase risk of skin cancer, can sneak into glass. You may not be seeing the warning signs of sunburn similar to when you’re sunbathing, but the fact that you’re constantly exposed means that you’re equally vulnerable to skin problems. This also applies at home, when you’re washing the dishes or enjoying a cup of tea, doing it all near the window.
How can you protect yourself? Apply sunscreen. Reapply it every three hours. Let the space where you’re working be covered, too. At your workstation, draw the blinds or curtains. If it’s possible to reorient the seating position, maybe your back to the window, do it. In your personal space, consider the home window tinting services in Arizona.
Going on a fun ride
Long drives are the best, especially when you’re with friends. You would drive for hours just to keep the squad happy. Unfortunately, your skin won’t be happy, as you might also be at risk of sun damage. According to experts, American drivers get UV exposure that’s five times stronger on the left arm and 20 times stronger on the left side of the face. The left portion of the body is the one most affected obviously because of the driving position. This kind of exposure causes fine lines, sagging skin, and brown spots to develop. Worse, it could trigger melanoma. In studies, researchers found that more than half of skin cancer cases affect the left side of the body — the driver’s side. Therefore, make sure to have your car windows tinted as well.
Skiing with friends
It’s like the total opposite of lying by the beach. But it’s true. You can still catch skin damage even in cold weather and away from the glistening ocean. The sun’s rays are more intense at high altitudes. The radiation increases 4 to 5% as you go higher and higher, every 1,000 feet above sea level. The skin damage gets worse when it’s the cold season. The UV rays bounce off of ice and snow. It’s like your skin gets a hit from the sun and the ground. If you’re planning to go skiing with friends, even if it’s cold in the mountains and it seems as though the sun isn’t there, apply sunscreen. Wear protective clothing, too, not just for physical safety but also for your skin’s health.
Just because you’re indoors or not under the sweltering heat of the sun doesn’t mean that you’re safe from skin damage. In fact, you might just need to be extra careful, especially at those times. The sun’s rays can still reach you even in shaded places.
