Quick blog. You need sunscreen all day, every day. (shocking, I know.)
- Dark skies overhead? Cloudy days do not protect you. They estimate up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate on cloudy days.
- Skiing and snow? Snow actually reflects the UV rays, so it increases your need for sunblock. Snow reflects 80% of the suns rays. See my prior blog on windburn.
- Beach days on sand? Uh oh. Sand is another reflector, increasing exposure by 25%.
Clothing protection? Clothing helps, but it is not always as protective as you think. Any clothing which is porous (can you see through it?), particularly when wet may not protect you much. If you want protective clothing there are companies like solumbra which specialize in SPF shirts, jackets, pants, and hats. Also look for surf shirts for the beach- buy from a well known brand which will specify SPF equivalent on it. Your kids surf shirt from last year you can read a newspaper through? Yes. You need to get a new one.
I am a big fan of clothing though for beach / swim time (who can reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and when you are wet?) and for those who work-out outside like bikers and runners who sweat a lot. I have treated many many skin cancers on bay area men and women who are avid bicyclists, runners, hikers, surfers, and swimmers. Clothing is easier than sunscreen sometimes.
Sunglasses? Beware! Find ones which specify UV protection on them. Cheap sunglasses or cosmetic sunglasses may not protect as well. Look specifically for 99-100% of blocking for UVA and UVB. “Polarized lenses” do not necessarily protect from UV rays- polarization just cuts down on glare. Larger lenses (go movie star chic!) and wrap around lenses are better. Polycarbonate, Blue blocking lenses, and photochromic lenses do not give you information on their UV blocking capability.
Warm days lie ahead…