Dangers of Sun

Dietary Precautions

Guess what? Protection comes from within as well as from the outside. Certain vitamins and minerals help slow aging, prevent age spots, wrinkling and other side effects of the sun.

Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that should be found in a good moisturizer. Vitamin E - fortified creams and oils can prevent inflammation and skin damage if applied within eight hours of sun exposure. Because vitamin E itself produces free radicals when exposed to ultraviolet light, researchers recommend that you apply it after, not before, sun exposure.

Good dietary sources of vitamin E include polyunsaturated vegetable oil, wheat germ, spinach and sunflower seeds. Vitamin C works with vitamin E towards a healthy antioxidant system. It is an essential sun-block vitamin. 'In general, vitamin C is important for keeping the skin younger looking', says Lorraine Meisner, Ph.D., professor of preventive medicine at the University of Wisconsin Medical School in Madison. Vitamin C can also help when applied topically, it has been shown to significantly reduce the amount of free-radical damage from sun exposure. Conversely, certain foods can heighten sensitivity to sunlight. Here's what to abstain from before going out: celery, parsnips, carrots and limes contain psoralens, a chemical that can raise your sensitivity to the sun. Not many people are sensitive to psoralens, so it doesn't mean that you should stop vegging-out. But if you suspect you might have this problem, be aware. As an added precaution, everybody should wash their hands before going out. Food makes hands extra susceptible to sun exposure, age spots and burning.

Eye precautions

Long-term sun exposure on the eyes can hurt delicate skin, lead to cataracts and even loss of vision. Sunglasses are essential, even for short distances. It's more than just a fashion item. The most important things to consider when choosing sunglasses are UV protection and a comfortable fit.

Sun Smarts

Dietary precautions, sunglasses and sunscreens aren't enough. By taking extra care and using simple common sense, you can prevent serious health problems. Follow these tips to make you sun smarter.

• Limit your time in the sun
  UV is most intense between 10AM - 3PM. Plan outdoor activities before or after peak intensity hours. Limit your time all year round. UV can pass through clouds and still cause a sunburn.
  
  
• Enhance Your Wardrobe
  Choose tight-knit fabrics, and choose darker colour fabrics because they absorb UV better than lighter colours. Heavier-weight fabrics also tend to block more UV than lighter-weight fabrics. Wear wide-brimmed hats or caps.
  
  
• Children
  Make sure you minimize the exposure of children to the sun exposure and apply sunscreens from a very early age.
  
  
• Hair Care
  The sun can bleach freshly coloured hair or even make it brassy in as little as one day. It can also dry it out and lead to breakage. Use styling products enhanced with sunscreen and stick to gentle shampoos and conditioners.
  
  
• Check skin regularly
  Improve your chances of finding pre-cancerous skin conditions by making simple self-examination a habit. The best time to examine the skin is after a shower or bath. Get used to your birthmarks, moles and blemishes so that you know what they usually look like and easily identify any changes. Look for changes in size, texture, shape and colour of blemishes or sores that don't heal. See your doctor if you notice any changes. Also, during your regular medical checkups, ask your doctor to check your skin. The earlier you identify any signs, the greater the chance of successful treatment.
  
  
• Sunny Side Up
  
  The sun can be dangerous, but it no doubt has its positive effects. It offers warmth, natural vitamin synthesis, uplifts the soul and admittedly, gives that bronzed finish.
  Enjoy it without suffering. Skin is fragile and for those serious about preserving it, there's nothing better than protection through sunscreens, vitamins, sunglasses and common sense. Now that sunscreens are incorporated into moisturizing creams, foundation and powders, there's no excuse to lay yourself bare. Learning about your skin type and how to tell when you have had enough ultraviolet exposure will help you quickly identify when to come in from the sun, maintaining a healthy and beautiful appearance.