Show Your Skin Some L-O-V-E

Many of us don't realize how important our skin is, or how crucial it is to protect it. There are more than a few things about it that we take for granted. The truth is that, while the information is out there, we really don't take as much time as we should to read up on it.

With that in mind, today I thought I'd provide you with a little synopsis of facts. Some you may already be aware of; some, maybe not. Either way though they're all interesting. And something you read in this brief refresher may one day help you more than that you can possibly imagine. So let's begin.

Our skin is our largest organ. It's primary job it to shield and protect all of our other organs, and it does its job very well. Keeping it healthy is paramount. The pigment 'melanin' is what defines our individual skin colors, but darker tones are just as susceptible to sun damage from UV rays as lighter ones. Our skin can shed up to forty thousand cells every sixty seconds, and our visible layer isn't even as thick as a swatch of Saran Wrap. As you might guess our eyebrows are comprised of our thinnest skin, while the soles of our feet boast our thickest.

So now that you've read the trivia, let's get down to brass tacks. An infant's skin becomes sunburned easier than it does at any other age. In fact the American Academy of Dermatology strongly recommends the use of a-at minimum-SPF30 sunscreen on all children, no matter their ethnicity. It's vital to keep this in mind, as just one severe sunburn during childhood or adolescence measurably increases later risk of developing Melanoma.

As we grow older it's important to know that a women's skin is thinner and less oily than a man's. Women sweat less too, and as such are more likely than their male counterparts to incur heat stroke. Of course, both genders should always wear sunscreen during outdoor activities, regardless.

And actually inside, too. What's very easy for us to forget is that sunlight penetrates window glass as easily as if it were, well, window glass. If you spend appreciable time indoors near windows, either at home or in your workplace, make sure to apply sunscreen. Same when you're driving, too. Many of us just don't think about sunburn while in our cars; that is until later on when we notice the painful UV damage on our left arms or the face. The chances are very good that you drive every day, and the effects of all that sun exposure add up quickly-even in winter. So the next time you're at the grocery store just pick up a bottle of sunblock and then leave it in your car for easy access. Simple, really.

Hopefully, today's post has served as a helpful reminder as to why you should keep yourself well-protected from the sun. The more you make a routine of sunscreen application, the more second nature it'll become for you.

And the more you'll be able to enjoy your outdoor time worry-free!

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