Massage Therapy Journal Summer 2025

86 • Massage Therapy Journal

Soothe Relax, Rejuvenate and Stay Centered

Stay Sun-Smart: Your Guide to Healthy Summer Skin Summer is right around the corner, meaning sunny days perfect for hiking, swimming and soaking up the great outdoors are almost, here, too. While the sunshine feels wonderful, too much exposure can take a serious toll on your skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging and even skin cancer. The good news? You can still enjoy the sun safely with a few smart habits. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your skin healthy and protected all summer long.

Understanding the Risks: Why Sun Protection Matters Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma. UV rays from the sun are a proven human carcinogen, damaging cells and increasing the risk of skin cancer. In addition to health risks, too much sun exposure accelerates signs of aging, causing wrinkles, fine lines and sunspots. Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Best Friend Sunscreen is your first line of defense

Apply generously: Most people don’t use enough. You need about a shot glass full (one ounce) to cover your body. Reapply often: Sunscreen wears off, especially when sweating or swimming. Reapply every two hours, or more if you’re in the water. Don’t forget key spots: Ears, lips, the back of your neck and tops of your feet are commonly missed but highly vulnerable to sun damage. Cover Up with Protective Clothing

Clothing offers an extra layer of sun protection. Consider these sun-smart tips:

Wear a wide-brimmed hat: A good

hat shades your face, neck and ears. Choose UV-protective clothing: Many brands offer lightweight, breathable fabrics with built-in sun protection. Sunglasses are a must: Look for lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes and prevent wrinkles around them.

against harmful UV rays. Here’s a few tips on how to choose a good sunscreen, as well as some general guidelines around application:

Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen: This protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Look for SPF 30 or higher.

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