What Sun Exposure REALLY does to you....
posted: May 20, 2014.
With summer fast approaching, many of us are beginning to think about long weekends spent out in the sunshine, soaking up the warm rays and trying to shake the last of that winter chill. But just what does all that sun exposure entail?
There are many body benefits from sunshine. Your body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunshine, a vitamin essential for aiding in the absorption of calcium. Sun exposure also helps to elevate mood and balance out melatonin levels. Melatonin is a chemical your body produces when there is a lack of light. It serves as a control over your sleep cycle, helping you to fall asleep each night. But if you aren’t exposed to enough light after you wake up, melatonin can hang around and make you feel sluggish and drowsy.
Aside from the benefits, there are some risks associated with sunlight that many of us are already very familiar with.
When exposed for too long without protection you are at risk for numerous side effects. Some sun exposure effects are:
• Sunburns
• Wrinkles, caused by the breakdown of collagen tissues
• Increased freckles and moles
• Mottled pigmentation of the skin
• Benign tumors
• Premature skin aging
• Skin cancer
Luckily, it is easy to avoid these side effects while still getting all the benefits of sunshine. Sunscreen, when applied correctly, can do a world of difference. Before a long day in the sun, a sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater should be applied to all of your skin 30 minutes before going outside. It should be reapplied at least every two hours, sooner if you have gotten wet or toweled off.
Wearing protective clothing and sunglasses also protect from harmful UV rays. It is also a good idea to avoid too much direct sunlight when the sun is brightest, between 10am and 4pm. Children and seniors above 60 are at an increased risk and should exercise a little extra caution.
It is a good idea to keep an eye on your skin, checking for any changes. Moles in particular should be watched, as they can show early signs of skin cancer. When checking a mole, keep the alphabet in mind: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving. If you notice any of these signs or other worrisome sun side effects, consult a doctor.
With nice weather right around the corner, get out there and enjoy some time outside, just remember to protect your skin! Remember your Bozeman Chiropractors at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic are always available for a consult if you have any health or spine concerns.
Call us: 406-551-2177
Schedule online at: https://appointments.mychirotouch.com/?clinic=GVCL0001