How much time in the sun do you need to stay healthy?
Sunlight is beneficial. It gives us Vitamin D, prevents insomnia, and wards off depression. It also causes skin cancer, cataracts, age spots, and wrinkles. So find out how much of a good thing you really need!
Ultraviolet B light is strongest 11:00am to 4:00pm. It gives you sunburn, but doesn’t pass through glass or reflect off surfaces.
Ultraviolet A light is very tricky! It does not cause sunburn, but still causes aging, tanning, and skin cancer. It does not have peak hours, but is strong all day. It can reflect off of sand and water, and injure you while you are in the shade. It can pass through office windows and some car and airplane windows. Therefore, sunburn is not an adequate way to judge if you have been exposed to too much sun.
So how much sun exposure/radiation is safe?
There is no way of exactly predicting this, but the consensus is 10-15 minutes of midday sun, three times a week without a sunscreen is more than enough to maintain Vitamin D levels and still keep safe.
Again, it depends on your situation. If you suffer from skin cancer, is very fair, or battling hyperpigmentation you would err on the side of caution.
So, the answers to these questions are…
Do you need sunscreen?
- Sitting in the shade…………for the most part yes! Remember the power of UVA Rays.
- Taking a long car trip (cloudy or sunny day) ……the answer is yes, especially if your windows are not specially tinted for UVA/UVB protection.
- Sitting directly in front of an office window all day….the answer is yes. Unless you are several feet away.
- Remember mountain vacations expose you to up to 10% more sun damage and radiation because the air is thinner, even on cloudy days.
- Early morning or late evening exercises…yes, still apply sunscreen. Unless it is dark and pesky. UVA light is strong at 12:00 noon as it is at 6:00 pm.
So have fun in the sun- but just be smart about it.
Why Choose DSA Dermatology?
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX,
At DSA Dermatology, we bring to you the best of not one but three leading dermatologists in Plano TX, Dr. Daniel S. Achtman, Dr. Carmine G. McConnell and Dr. Jordan. Achtman.
Dr. Achtman is a board-certified Dermatologist with over three decades of experience. Having graduated from the medical school of McMaster University, he also studied at the UTSW Medical Center in Dallas, TX where he also served as Chief Resident in the Department of Dermatology. In addition to possessing extensive training and experience in cosmetic enhancement techniques, Dr. Achtman is widely known as a leading expert in the diagnosis and treatment of various skin cancers. He is an active member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Achtman goes the extra mile to understand your medical concerns and to ensure that he helps you meet your unique aesthetic goals.
Dr. Carmine G. McConnell is a board-certified physician in Plano TX. Having been trained at McMaster University, Canada, she went on to earn her board certification in Texas. Having served as Chief of Staff of her department at Plano Medical Center, she has over two decades of experience in practicing medicine in her practice and while assisting Dr. Achtman in the practice of dermatology. In addition to her extensive postgraduate training in laser therapy and aesthetic surgery, among other procedures, she possesses vast experience in both cosmetic dermatological techniques and family medicine. As a conscientious and caring physician, Dr. McConnell provides her patients with customized non-surgical treatments to help address health and aesthetic concerns related to the skin. She is also keen on helping patients understand their skin and how it can be cared for and protected.
Dr. Jordan Achtman is a board-certified dermatologist in DSA Dermatology at Plano, TX. Dr. J. Achtman graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and completed his residency in dermatology at UT Southwestern. His expertise spans general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. J. Achtman also has various special interests including chronic itch, infectious diseases of the skin, and the relationship between mental health and skin health. He is also very keen on helping patients form healthy skincare regimens and habits. In the hands of Dr. J. Achtman, you can be assured of innovative and cutting edge solutions for all your skin concerns.