Living in the sunshine state there is no shortage of sunshine or activities to participate in outside. It is important from an early age that proper care of our skin is maintained to protect ourselves from the dangers of skin cancer. While our body needs vitamin D and the sunshine is a great source of that (as well as nutrients and supplements), any elongated exposure to UV rays requires some kind of skin protectant to mitigate risk of sun damage.
Ultraviolet radiation (UVs) is a kind of electromagnetic radiation that can come from the sun or even man made items like tanning beds. Energy from the the radiating source can give off varying levels of energy. The highest energy is called ionizing radiation and this particular kind of energy can damage our DNA and in turn cause skin cancer.
There are three main groups of UVs (1) UVA rays: have the lowest energy and can cause wrinkles of the skin, skin spots, and other more cosmetic long term effects to skin (2) UVB rays: have a medium level of energy (slightly more than UVB) and are thought to be prevalent in causing skin cancers. UVBs are the main source of sun burns. (3) UVC rays: Highest level of energy but they react higher in the ozone atmosphere and typically do not reach the ground level. There are man made products (bulbs, welding tools, and other sources) than give off UVCs. UVCs are not associated commonly with skin cancer cases or skin damage.
Sunshine is the main way people are exposed to UVs. It is important to monitor UV levels if you plan to spend extended amounts of time outside. Now there are numerous weather sites to monitor UVs daily to ensure you are prepared. Other things to consider: what time of day you are outside, how long you will be outside for, what time of year is it, what is your distance from the equator, what altitude are you at, and is there cloud coverage (amongst other things). If you can’t avoid being in the sun during high levels of UV ensure you wear proper sun protection (minimum of 30 SPF, sunglasses, and a hat) and seek shade when you can.
Indoor tanning is a prominent way individuals are exposed to UVs. Some beds emit UVBs and some emit UVAs. It is best to avoid tanning beds as they are associated with increased melanoma, squamous and basal cell cancers.
Since UV rays from sun exposure and certain indoor exposures are most certainly tied to skin conditions and cancers it is important you remain vigilant in monitoring your exposures and taking preventative measures to protect your skin health. If you live in a state like Florida with a lot of direct sunlight ,daily SPF use is recommended. And as always, don’t forget to schedule your annual skin check with your dermatologist. It is important to have a specialist check your skin and and any concerning changes to your skin.
UV indexes are widely available, you can check sites like : https://www.uvindextoday.com/usa/florida/hillsborough-county/tampa-uv-index for daily information. Your favorite weather channel offers UV index information as well.
For more information on UVs you can also visit: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/uv-radiation.html
(Sources, American Cancer Society).
Statewide Dermatology 