Medical Dermatology

Sun Protection

Sun Protection is important to prevent the short and long-term damaging effects of sunlight. Sunscreens should be used in conjunction with protective clothing for optimal sun protection. Long-term overexposure can cause wrinkles, freckles, age spots, dilated blood vessels, changes in the texture of the skin, and skin cancers. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you avoid deliberate sunbathing, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing. When you are exposed to sun, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 even on cloudy days. A broad-spectrum sunscreen is one that protects against both ultraviolet-A (UVA) and ultraviolet-B light (UVB).