SPF and other forms of sun protection are among the most important things anyone, especially redheads, can do for their health. Sun exposure and exposure to UV rays are a direct cause of skin damage and skin cancer, but with proper SPF use and sun protection, it can be prevented. That’s why it’s so important to keep ourselves educated on the risks of sun exposure and really understand how UV rays affect our bodies.
First, what are UVC rays?
Did you know there are 3 different types of UV rays? You’ve almost certainly heard of UVA and UVB, but there’s also UVC. Now, there’s a reason you may not have heard of UVC and it’s because it’s not much of a threat to humans. These rays are stopped by the Earth’s atmosphere and don’t reach our skin. UVA and UVB are the ones we need to watch for.
What are UVA rays?
UVA is the most common of the UV rays. These rays are longer and can penetrate the skin more deeply. This can cause more damage to the innermost layer of your skin which can lead to skin cancer as well as premature signs of aging. UVA rays can affect your skin even though windows are on a cloudy day, which is why it’s important to wear SPF every day, no matter the weather.
What are UVB rays?
Many early sunscreens only fought against UVA rays, which left us still vulnerable to UVB rays. These rays are shorter and affect the outermost layer of skin which often leads to sunburn and skin damage at a surface level. These rays can be blocked by glass and leave you the least at risk for skin cancer.
Since there are multiple types of UV rays, it’s important to use broad-spectrum sunscreens. These will protect you from all the UV rays and leave your skin as protected as possible. You can also use sun-protecting clothing, hats, and sunglasses to reduce your risk.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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