Summer is almost over, and there are plenty of overcast days ahead. This makes many people question whether they should continue wearing sunscreen even on overcast days. Even though you may not see the sun, it still has the power to cause sun damage to your skin, which can lead to skin cancer.
Should You Wear Sunscreen?
What many people fail to realize is that UV rays have the ability to penetrate clouds. This means that the sun still has the power to cause sun damage even if we cannot see it shining through. The sun has the ability to cause significant damage even in short intervals of exposure. This makes it even more critical to always wear sunscreen when outdoors to ensure you have the protection you need.
Why Is Sunscreen So Important?
Spending time outdoors always seems like a good idea. However, it is essential to be protected against the sun’s harmful rays. The unfortunate truth is that extensive UV exposure can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.
When exposed to UV radiation from the sun for an extended period, it can result in significant damage to the skin’s DNA. If there is too much damage to the DNA, it can cause the cells to grow out of control. This can lead to the development of skin cancer.
How Does Sunscreen Help?
Wearing sunscreen when out in the sun can block UV radiation from penetrating the skin. This layer of protection can drastically limit the amount of damage caused to the DNA in the skin and protect against the development of skin cancer. However, it is important to understand that even with the most possible protection, you should still get an annual skin examination to ensure no harmful growths are forming on your skin.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you have sun damage and you are interested in getting checked for skin cancer, contact SkinSmart Dermatology at 941-308-7546 now or use their online form to schedule an appointment. Their board-certified dermatologists have been providing trusted cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology services to individuals across Sarasota, Florida, and you can depend on their team to provide you with quality care.
