July marks Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the effects of UV radiation on our skin. With summer in full swing, Canadians are spending more time outdoors, making it essential to prioritize skin safety.
UV radiation, or ultraviolet radiation, is a type of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It consists of three main types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere, UVA and UVB penetrate the atmosphere and affect our skin.
UVB rays mainly cause sunburn and play a key role in skin cancer development. However, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and may cause premature aging and wrinkles and contribute to skin cancer risk.
Mineral sunscreens may be a great choice for those with sensitive skin – mineral actives are not absorbed by the skin, thus protecting the skin from UV radiation.
The Aveeno® Protect + Soothe is a sunscreen line with 100% mineral actives that do not leave a white cast on skin. It also comes in various formats for different usage occasions.
Tips to help safeguard your skin
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Incorporate broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher into your daily skincare routine, like Aveeno® Protect + Soothe Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, Aveeno® Protect + Soothe Mineral Sunscreen Stick Sensitive Skin SPF 50, and Aveeno® Protect + Soothe Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, tightly woven clothing and wide-brimmed hats to shield your skin from direct UV exposure.
- Seek Shade: When outdoors, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or canopies.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, especially on hot, sunny days.
- Check the UV Index: Be aware of the UV index in your area and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Higher UV index levels mean greater risk of sunburn.
