Did you know even sitting close to a window can damage your skin long-term? According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the sun's UVA rays, which are known to cause skin ageing and wrinkles, can pass through glass hence damaging your skin if you sit closer to a window and don't apply sunscreen regularly. For those of us who work in the sun, it is imperative to protect our skin from sun damage. The UVB rays of the sun are responsible more for skin cancer. According to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, prolonged exposure to UV rays can take a toll on the cells of your skin. So, how can one protect their skin from this damage? Here are 4 dermatologist-approved ways to do that. Apply sunscreen regularly, even if you're inside According to Dr Kapoor, everyone, irrespective of gender, must use sunscreen on a daily basis, even when one is at home. Dermatologist Dr Aanchal Panth recommends applying sunscreen indoors twice at 9 AM and 1 PM. If you're outdoors, she suggests reapplying throughout the day with a gap of 2 hours. You should apply sunscreen to all of your bare skin, including body parts such as neck, face, ears, tops of the feet, and legs. For areas like your back, ask someone to assist you or use a spray sunscreen which is a convenient option. Look for a water-resistant sunscreen so you don't sweat it off in the summers. Avoid the mid-day sun as much as possible Both Dr Panth and Dr Kapoor recommend not going out in the mid-day sun as it has the strongest amount of sun rays with direct UVA and UVB rays that can both damage your skin and cause skin cancer. Wear full-sleeved loose clothing Dr Kapoor suggests wearing full-sleeved, loose-fitted cotton clothes to cover your body parts from the dangerous UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Use antioxidant serums in the morning Dr Panth recommends using antioxidant serums such as Vitamin C, azelaic acid, ferulic acid, and Bakuchiol in the morning. "This will reduce free radical formation, which can damage many layers of the skin, as well as provide additional UV protection," she said. Carry an umbrella and wide-rimmed sunglasses Dr Kapoor suggests sun-proofing the skin by using a scarf or sunglasses. Dr Panth recommends using wide-rimmed sunglasses that will completely cover your eyes and protect them from damage. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
