Hot Texas sun can damage skin

Sunscreen should be a part of your daily routine as much as brushing your teeth and combing your hair. Why, you ask? Because the hot Texas sun can damage your skin for life, and even take your life.

“Tanning and burns cause premature aging (wrinkles) and pre-cancerous lesions may lead to skin cancer,” said North Lake College’s Registered Nurse, Teresa Sauer, who recommends using a screen protection factor (SPF) of 15.

But if you’re one of those diehard sun worshipers who bakes by the pool, Sauer said that sunning before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m. is better for you because that’s when the sun’s UV rays are not as strong.

She also recommends wearing UV blocking sunglasses, widebrimmed hats, and even sun-protective clothing if you are fairskinned.

North Lake College Health Services Director Virginia Jones says there are three types of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma, but that if caught early, they are treatable if diagnosed in early stages.

“Skin cancer can be avoided by most if precautions are taken,” said Jones. “Fair-haired people with light skin and blue or green eyes are twice likely to develop skin cancer.”

Jones explains that if you happen to burn, products with aloe help. Make sure to shower in cool water and do not use soap. Drink plenty of fluids and never break the blisters. If your burn is highly severe, please seek medical attention, she said.

Jones also said a full head of hair does not protect the scalp from burning, so bald or shaved heads should use at least an SPF-15 sunscreen or wear a hat.

Don’t forget about your hair. There are ways to protect it from the sun, too. Stacey Johnson, a hairstylist at Cloud 9 Hair and Spa, said, “You must condition your hair and scalp at least two times daily during the summer, especially when on vacation. Make sure to wash your hair with cold water before swimming and while showering. This will keep your hair color from fading and frying in the sun,” Johnson said.

Brittany Oliverson at Palm Beach Tan said, “If your hair is dark it is going to lighten up, and if your hair is light or blonde, it will become brassy-looking. It is very important to cover your hair while tanning with either a hair cap or other materials.

“You should tan in order to form a base on your skin to protect from sun-burning,” Oliverson suggested. “SPF and moderations is the key. The worst thing you want to do is burn or turn pink.”

She said healthy skin tans the best so choosing a lotion is critical. Our lotions carry vitamins, different nutrients, and bronzers back into your skin,” explained Oliverson.

Before you head to the beach or pool this summer, go over your list of essentials. The list should include sunscreen (SPF-15), hat, protective clothing, Aloe vera, hair cap, water, sunglasses, and of course your bikini or swimming trunks.

For more information on skin cancer, contact www.cancer.org or call Jones at 972-273-3171.