When it’s cloudy outside, it may be tempting to skip the sunscreen. However, this would be a mistake.
It is considered that a light cloud cover allows more than 90% of ultraviolet (UV) radiation to pass through. That is why you can get sunburned even on a cloudy day. Therefore, you should continue to protect your skin in the same way as you would on a sunny day.
Sunburn is not the only concern. Long-term UV exposure is linked to an increased risk of skin cancer and skin damage, including skin aging. Keep in mind that tanned skin indicates skin irritation or damage. Skin tanning causes damage that accumulates over time.
Tanning, like sunburn, accelerates skin aging and raises the risk of skin cancer, especially dangerous malignant melanoma.
Here are some sun-protection tips.
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat to shield your face.
- Wear clothing with SPF protection.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours.
- Use water-resistant sunscreen when swimming or sweating in the sun.
- Avoid being outside in the sun, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when UV light is most intense.
It important to have a regular skin check every year, especially if you have fair skin. If you see any changes in your skin, consult your primary doctor, who may recommend you to a dermatologist.
You should protect your skin whenever you spend time outside, no matter how cloudy the weather is.
