Safe Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is beneficial in moderation, take the right precautions to care for your skin.

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us are eager to spend more time outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just soaking up the vitamin D, getting outside is great for your physical and mental health. However, it's important to remember that sun exposure, while beneficial in moderation, can also pose risks to your skin, especially if you're not taking the right precautions.

At Align Chiropractic, we believe in a holistic approach to health, which includes safe sun exposure and practices that protect your skin while still allowing you to enjoy the benefits of natural sunlight.

Why Sun Exposure Matters

Sunlight is our best natural source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. The sun's UVB rays help your body synthesize vitamin D, which is why a little sun exposure can be beneficial. About 20 minutes per day is sufficient. However, too much exposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can increase the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Sunscreen

When it comes to sunscreen, not all products are created equal. Many commercial sunscreens contain chemicals that can be harmful to both your skin and the environment. At Align Chiropractic, we recommend choosing sunscreens that are safe, effective, and made with natural ingredients.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a sunscreen:

• Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to skin aging, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn.

• SPF 30 or Higher: For adequate protection, go for a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.

• Mineral-Based Sunscreens: Look for sunscreens that contain natural ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These physical blockers sit on top of your skin and reflect UV rays, rather than absorbing them into your skin like chemical sunscreens do.

• Avoid Harmful Chemicals: Avoid sunscreens with harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and homosalate. These ingredients can irritate the skin and have been linked to environmental harm, especially in marine ecosystems.

A Holistic Approach to Skin Health

In addition to safe sun exposure and sunscreen, consider incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and supplements into your diet to support your skin’s natural defenses. Vitamin C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids are all beneficial for skin health and can help protect your skin from oxidative stress caused by sun exposure.

At Align Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy, vibrant, and protected from the inside out. If you have questions about how your diet impacts your skin health and overall wellness, our functional nutrition consultations can provide the answers you need.

Read more about our functional nutrition services here at Align Chiropractic.