Sun Safety 101: Protecting Your Skin and Eyes This Summer
Sun Safety in Maryland
As temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s crucial to protect your skin and eyes from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV light is a type of invisible energy emitted by the sun and even though it helps your body produce vitamin D, too much can harm your skin and eyes. UV rays can also come from other sources like tanning beds and certain types of lamps, but the sun is by far the most common and powerful source. We want you to enjoy all the summer activities like walking your dog or enjoying a backyard barbecue. Sun safety is vital to your overall health.
The 5 Tips For Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Why Sun Protection Matters
Tips for Protecting Your Skin
Tips for Protecting Your Eyes
When to See a Doctor
Why Sun Protection Matters
The 5 Tips For Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Is Spending Time in the Sun Healthy?
Spending time in the sun can be enjoyable and even healthy in small amounts, but too much exposure can lead to serious health problems. UV rays can damage your skin’s cells, leading to sunburn, wrinkles, age spots, and even skin cancer over time. This damage adds up each time your skin is unprotected in the sun.
The 5 Tips For Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
The Affect of UV Radiation
UV radiation also affects your eyes. Long term exposure without protection can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and even growths on the eye.
The 5 Tips For Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Steps to Shield Your Eyes
Taking steps to shield your skin and eyes from the sun is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay healthy. If you’re looking for help with preventive care, scheduling a visit with a primary care doctor in Columbia, MD, or stopping by a walk-in clinic in Rockville, MD, can be a great first step in your sun safety plan.
Tips for Protecting Your Skin
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Apply Sunscreen the Right Way
Sunscreen works best when used properly. Make sure to choose a sunscreen that says “broad-spectrum” with an SPF of at least 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed skin about 15 minutes before going outside. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like your ears, neck, tops of feet, and even your scalp if your hair is thin. Reapply at least every two hours and more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Wear the Right Clothing
Clothing is your first line of defense against the sun. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats help block UV rays from reaching your skin. Look for clothes labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), which offer added protection. Lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can keep you cool while staying covered.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Keep an Eye on Your Skin!
Check your skin regularly for changes. New spots, moles that look different, or sores that don’t heal could be signs of skin cancer. It’s a good idea to get a skin check from a healthcare provider every year. You can make an appointment with a family doctor in Columbia, MD, or walk in for care at our clinic in Frederick, MD if you notice something concerning.
Tips for Protecting Your Eyes
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Choose Sunglasses with UV Protection
Your eyes are sensitive to sunlight, just like your skin. Pick sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Not all sunglasses offer this protection, so check the label. Bigger lenses and wraparound styles are best because they block light from the sides as well.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Add a Hat for Extra Coverage
Wearing a hat with a wide brim adds extra protection for your eyes and face. A baseball cap helps a little, but a hat that goes all the way around your head gives the best shade for your eyes, nose, and ears.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Protect Your Eyes with Healthy Habits
Staying hydrated helps keep your eyes moist and comfortable, especially in dry or windy summer weather. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, use lubricating eye drops. Also, give your eyes a break from screens and wear protective eyewear if you’re doing activities like mowing the lawn or playing sports.
When to See a Doctor
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Always Be Cautious
Sometimes, even with good sun safety habits, your skin or eyes can still get damaged. If you have a sunburn that’s painful, blistering, or covers a large area of your body, you should seek medical care. Sunburns can cause dehydration and even lead to infection if the skin becomes broken.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Changes in Skin?
Changes in your skin such as a new mole, a spot that bleeds, or a sore that won’t heal should be looked at right away. These could be early signs of skin cancer. Our family doctors in Frederick, MD are trained to evaluate these changes and can refer you to a specialist, if needed.
The 5 Tips for Skin and Eye Protection This Summer
Eye Issues are Serious
Eye issues also deserve prompt care. If you have trouble seeing clearly, notice a gritty feeling in your eyes, or feel pain when looking at light, don’t wait. Visit a walk-in clinic in Silver Spring, MD or schedule an appointment with a family doctor in Silver Spring, MD for a full check-up. Getting care early can help prevent small problems from becoming serious health issues.
Your Local Sun Safety Partners
First Medical Associates proudly serves communities across Maryland with convenient locations in Columbia, Frederick, Silver Spring, Rockville, and many more. Our clinics offer a full range of services, including primary care, walk-in visits, preventive screenings, and urgent care – all delivered by experienced providers who put your health first.
Our team is ready to help you stay safe and healthy—especially during the summer months when sun protection is so important.For a complete list of our Maryland locations and services, visit www.drsfirst.com. At First Medical Associates, we are committed to helping you and your family stay safe in the sun and healthy all year long.
Have questions or need to book an appointment? Contact First Medical Associates today.