Relaxing with the Rays

How to save your skin this summer and for years to come

by Aimee Hughes and illustrations by Annie Internicola, May 28, 2008

Summer has finally arrived! All those glorious outdoor activities we enjoy under the sweet summer sun are just waiting for us—kayaking along the Hudson, hiking the Catskills, tending to the tomatoes in the veggie garden. Yet, as we all know, long hours in the blazing sun can have long-term effects on our skin. The two main concerns are risk of skin cancer and premature aging, which increase as exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) does.

In addition to using sunscreen, there are many ways to help prevent skin cancer and sun-enhanced skin damage. Some of our best defenses against the sun’s negative effects can be found all around us, including in the bedroom closet, the kitchen spice rack, the table’s fruit bowl, and the local natural food or herbalist store.

Timing is everything
The sun’s rays are at their most potent between the hours of 11am and 4pm. Stephen Weinman, MD, of Essence Medispa in Highland, reminds us that the sun of our childhood is much different than that of today, because ozone depletion allows more UV to get to us. To get the point across that radiation is real, he says, “I like to tell my patients to picture the sun as an enormous x-ray machine. When the sun is high in the sky during these peak hours, you are getting bombarded with rays.” For your skin’s sake, plan your outdoor activities to avoid the period of 11 to 4 whenever possible. If you do go out during these peak hours, minimize your time in the sun. Seek shade under a lovely old oak, a big umbrella, or a protected porch. Remember, too, that clouds do not guarantee protection, as ultraviolet radiation is only partly hindered by them. Reflections off water (and snow) add to sun exposure.