The Importance of Sun Protection, Chiropractic Perspective

LCM Blog_June 2023-01

As summer approaches and the sun shines brighter, sun protection becomes critically important to safeguard your skin’s health. People spend more time being active outdoors – by the pool and in the yard – which is good for our physical health. Unfortunately, we can also suffer the effects of too much sun while we’re having our summer fun. 

I’m guilty of skipping sun protection myself, and I get burned way too quickly. As chiropractors, we understand the significance of overall well-being, and that includes protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of wearing sunscreen and other sun protection measures and discuss environmentally safe sunscreen options and UV-protectant clothing. We’ll also share instructions on managing sunburn, including the use of aloe vera. Finally, I’ll share one of the most effective products I’ve found to help you deal with sunburn if you overdo it this summer!

Why Sun Protection Matters

First, let’s look at all the reasons why sun protection is important to your skin and overall health.

  1. Preventing Skin Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to skin damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. It’s important to use sun protection to reduce the harmful effects of UV radiation, promoting healthier skin in the long run.
  2. Minimizing Sunburn: Sunburn is not only painful, but it can also result in inflammation and skin peeling. Wearing sun protection significantly reduces your risk of sunburn and the associated discomfort.
  3. Preserving Skin’s Youthful Appearance: Sun exposure accelerates the aging process, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. By shielding your skin from the sun, you help maintain its natural elasticity and prevent premature aging. Sun protection is important for protecting your youthful glow!

Methods of Sun Protection

Next, let’s consider your options for shielding your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

  1. Environmental Sunscreen: Choose sunscreens that are environmentally safe and protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of the skin and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
  2. UV-Protectant Clothing: Opt for clothing with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) to shield your skin from the sun. Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection to your face, neck, and eyes.

Managing Sunburn

Of course, I’m hoping we all avoid sunburn this summer, but it happens! If you end up in the sun unprepared at some point this summer and end up burned, here’s what to do.

  1. Cool Compress: If you get sunburned, apply a cool compresses to the areas affected or take a cool shower to soothe the affected area and alleviate inflammation.
  2. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy known for its soothing properties. Apply aloe vera gel to the sunburned area to help calm the skin, reduce redness, and promote healing.
  3. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body recover from sunburn. Sunburn can cause dehydration, so it’s crucial to replenish lost fluids.
  4. Moisturize: After the initial cool compress or shower, gently apply a moisturizer to help lock in moisture and prevent further dryness and peeling. Mary Kay After Sun Replenishing Gel provides excellent relief and includes ingredients like Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract to assist in the skin’s recovery process.
  5. Plan Ahead for next time: Learn your lesson, @&%# it! (I’m kidding. Mostly.) Let the sting of the burn remind you how important sun protection is to your health. Pick up some small bottles or spray cans of sunscreen to stash in places where you’ll have them handy (e.g., your car, purse).

Sun Protection Is Important to Overall Wellness

As chiropractors, we emphasize the importance of holistic well-being, and protecting your skin from the sun is an essential part of that. Wearing sunscreen, using UV-protectant clothing, and taking other precautions against sunburn help maintain healthier, younger-looking skin and reduce the risk of skin damage and additional health issues.

In the event of sunburn, utilizing natural remedies such as aloe vera and Mary Kay After Sun Replenishing Gel provides soothing relief and supports the skin’s recovery. I use the Mary Kay After Sun immediately after realizing I have been sunburned. It helps me out tremendously with the itching and peeling, and it decreases the healing time significantly!  Prioritize sun protection to enjoy the summer while keeping your skin safe and healthy. Remember, prevention is key to maintaining vibrant skin and overall wellness. 

If you would like to try out some of the Mary Kay After Sun, click here to purchase yours. You won’t regret it!Contact our office if you have any questions.

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Levander Chiropractic & Massage

125 N. 1st Street
Jeannette, PA., 15644
724-527-1700

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