As the temperatures warm up and we all spend more time outdoors, I want to remind Cinco Vidas readers to be sure and protect their skin! UV rays are not only the main cause of skin cancer, they’re also the main reason your skin shows signs of aging.
Of course, you want to choose a safe sunscreen-check out the Environmental Working Group’s list for the best options. Don’t forget to apply to your ears, under the eyes, and along your hairline. But in addition to sunscreen, there are other options for protecting yourself. Here are a few of them.
1. UV Protective Clothing
I posted about sun protective clothing a couple years ago, but here’s a reminder for you. It’s more popular than ever, and typically provides an SPF of up to 50. (For clothing, it’s often referred to as “Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF).”) These items work by using dense, tight construction that minimizes space between the yarns, specific dyes that deflect UV rays, and unique fiber types. They look great and have become mainstream at locations like the beach or the pool. Most last for about 40 washes-but do be sure to replace them after that. Try Coolibar, REI, and Sun Grubbies.
2. Umbrellas
Regular handheld umbrellas, according to a recent study, can help block between 77 and 99 percent of UV radiation. Dermatologists at Emory University in Atlanta found that handheld umbrellas offer effective sun protection, with black ones being most efficient, blocking 90 percent or more of damaging rays.
3. Protective Laundry Detergents
I’ve posted about laundry detergents before, regarding the harsh chemicals present in many that can irritate and dry out skin. There are UV protective laundry detergents out there today, however, that have been treated to increase broad-spectrum UV protection on regular clothing. SunGuard, for example, was given the Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation for offering an additional UPF of 30 and blocking 96 percent of harmful UV rays. If you have sensitive skin, however, or asthma and allergies, you may want to avoid this option.
4. Plant Oils
A 2011 study published in Pharmacognosy Reviews reported that some plant oils contain natural sunscreens. These include sesame, coconut, peanut, olive, and cottonseed. Red raspberry seed oil has a natural SPF of between 28 and 50, carrot seed oil between 38 and 40, and wheat germ oil at 20. As an added benefit, all these oils have antioxidants that protect against free radical damage. Just don’t forget to reapply and use other methods as well, including hats, sunglasses, and shade.
5. Get More Beta-Carotene
According to a 2003 study published in the Journal of Nutrition, taking a nutritional supplement containing beta-carotene, plus other carotenoids like lutein and lycopene, may help protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun-thereby reducing the risk of skin cancer. Carotenoids are potent antioxidants that give many fruits and vegetables their orange and red colors. In the study, adults who took nutritional supplements containing these carotenoids and were then exposed to UV light had a significant decrease in damage and redness to the skin. In addition to supplements, try getting more squash, carrots, mangos, apricots, tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and guava in your diet.
Do you have other options for sun protection? Please share your ideas.
Sources
Genevra Pittman, “Umbrellas may shield you from more than rain: study,” Medline Plus, March 20, 2013, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_135144.html.
