When it comes to aging well, the sun can be both a friend and a foe. Yes, a little sunshine gives us Vitamin D, which supports strong bones and a healthy immune system. But too much unprotected exposure? That’s when trouble begins.
Here are a few sobering truths:
- 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
- Every hour, one person dies of melanoma—that’s nearly 2 million people each year.
- Your risk doubles if you’ve had more than five sunburns.
- Indoor tanning is not safer—using tanning beds before age 35 increases skin cancer risk by 35%.
- Nearly half of Americans over 65 will experience skin cancer at least once.
- And yes—anyone can get skin cancer, no matter your skin tone or race.
Beyond skin, sun exposure also damages your eyes and the delicate skin around them. That’s why practicing sun safety daily isn’t just optional—it’s essential.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Some lifestyles make sun exposure almost unavoidable. If you’re a golfer, a parent on the sidelines of your kids’ games, a construction worker, truck driver, lifeguard, or simply a vacationer soaking it all in—you’re at higher risk. Even those with thinning hair or shaved heads need extra protection.
Everyday Sun-Safe Habits
Here’s how you can put protection into practice without overthinking it:
- Make sunscreen a daily ritual. Keep it next to your toothbrush so you don’t forget.
- Apply generously—a shot glass amount every two hours, and always after swimming or sweating.
- Choose wisely—a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. (Personally, I love JAFRA’s SPF 50+.)
- Give it time—apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before heading outdoors.
- Cover up—wear wide-brim hats, visors, or even a chic parasol. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing works wonders, too.
- Protect your eyes—quality sunglasses are a must.
- Time it right—seek shade between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., when rays are strongest.
- Skip the tanning booths—embrace your natural glow!
- Keep extras handy—store sunscreen in your car, purse, backpack, and even at work so you’re never caught without.
- Don’t forget your hands—hand creams with SPF protect one of the first places to show aging.
- Hydrate after sun—a cooling after-sun lotion soothes, calms, and replenishes.
- Start early—keep newborns out of direct sunlight. Babies under six months should never wear sunscreen.
Protect and Detect
Even with the best prevention, it’s wise to stay alert:
- Do a monthly skin check for new spots, moles, or anything itchy, bleeding, or suspicious.
- See your dermatologist annually.
- If you’re already dealing with uneven tone, blotchiness, or dark spots, consider corrective skincare. (I recommend the JAFRA BioLab Dark Spot Corrector to help reverse visible sun damage.)
Final Thought
The sun is life-giving and beautiful, but like all good things, it requires balance. By making sun safety part of your daily routine, you protect your skin, preserve your natural beauty, and support your overall health—now and for years to come.
Your skin deserves royal care, every single day. Start today, and future you will thank you!
