Summer skin protection is more important now than ever, especially for adults over 65. This is expected to be one of the hottest summers in recorded history, and extreme UV exposure can increase your risks of sun damage and its dangerous consequences.Â
Older adults are at greater risk of adverse effects of UV sun damage, including various forms of skin cancer. Aging skin is less resilient against sun damage, so it’s important to proactively protect your skin this summer and beyond.Â
Summer Skin Protection Tips for Older Adults
Be Mindful About Sun Exposure
The best way to prevent sun damage is to avoid excess sun exposure. This means staying indoors or under adequate shade during the peak hours of UV exposure between 11 AM and 3 PM. If you must be outdoors during this period, limit your sun exposure as much as possible by using hats, umbrellas, trees, and other coverings for shade.
Use SPF 30+ Sunscreen
Older adults are less likely to regularly use sunscreen than later generations, which also increases your risks of experiencing sun damage. It’s important to understand that UV rays are much more intense than in previous decades, which makes sunscreens and sunblocks necessary for preserving your skin’s health. Be sure to reapply your chosen sun protectant at least every 2 hours while outdoors, or more frequently if you are in the water, or sweating heavily.Â
Wear Protective Clothing
Sunscreen isn’t the only way to protect your skin from sun damage. Protective layers like loose, long-sleeve tops and pants, swim cover-ups, and hats can help reduce UV rays’ impact on your skin. Light colors and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are best for staying comfortable in the heat while protecting your skin.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential for summer skin protection on hot, humid days in Sarasota and Port Charlotte, FL. Drinking enough water also helps to protect your skin, which is up to 64% water. Healthy, well-hydrated skin is better able to prevent and repair UV damage. Generally, you should drink between ⅓ and ½ your body weight in ounces of water a day. For example, if you weigh 150 lbs., your ideal range would be 50 to 70 ounces of water.
See Your Dermatologist
The best way to ensure your skin is healthy as you age is to see your dermatologist regularly. Annual skin exams should be a part of your yearly health routine, and you may need more frequent visits if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer or other factors that elevate your risks. This increases your odds of catching any signs of trouble early for adequate care and successful recovery.
Summer Skin Protection at ADF Dermatology
Keep yourself and your loved ones sun-safe this summer by following our sun protection tips and scheduling your skin exam at ADF Dermatology. With two convenient locations in Sarasota and Port Charlotte, our dedicated dermatologists are committed to helping our communities enjoy lifelong healthy skin. Conveniently schedule your appointment with our online scheduler – same-day appointments may be available.Â
