True or false: Sun avoidance and regular application of sunscreen are necessary for good health
While this is a common statement that many believe to be true it needs additional clarification. It's definitely true that excessive sun
exposure is risky and should be avoided. However, consider these important facts:
- modern research indicates that sufficient sun exposure during appropriate times of the day without applying sunscreen is required for the biosynthesis of vitamin D
- the same research shows that vitamin D is necessary for prevention of osteoporosis, diabetes and many other diseases
- the availability of vitamin D from dietary sources is limited, therefore you are much better off getting it from the sun
So how do you sunbath appropriately to get the best
results while avoiding overexposure? The answer will depend on your skin type, work
and leisure activities, health, and other conditions.
Here are some general guidelines though which will help:
- sunbathing for up to 15 minutes per day, away from the water, up to 11am and after 5pm is generally safe
- make sure you spend roughly the same time sunbathing on your back and on your stomach
- slowly build up your sunbathing time up to approximately 30 minutes in total
These are general recommendations only. As stated earlier the asnwer depends on your skin type, health and other factors. Discuss this further with our team at Health Point Physiotherapy.
For more information on how to achieve better health visit http://www.healthpointphysiotherapy.com.au/maintaining-health.html
The sun's UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Put on sunscreen before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Don't forget to put a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. And remember, sunscreen works best when combined with other options to prevent UV damage.
ReplyDeleteThe United States Food and Drug Administration has announced significant changes to sunscreen product labels that will help consumers decide how to buy and use sunscreen, and allow them to protect themselves and their families from sun-induced damage more effectively.
How sunscreen works. Most sun protection products work by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering sunlight. They contain chemicals that interact with the skin to protect it from UV rays. All products do not have the same ingredients; if your skin reacts badly to one product, try another one or call a doctor. Sunscreen