The South Texas heat can really leave its mark, but it's the sun that can have lasting effects.
And for those stepping outside for long periods of time - sunscreen is a must.
You may not realize the full impact that the sun has on your skin.
When living in South Texas, laying out at the beach or pool may sound like a good idea as a way to get vitamin D. But this form of getting your nutrients is extremely harmful for you and your skin.
"They make pills that you can take for vitamin D,” said Dr. Beverly Held, a board certified dermatologist. “You don’t have to get excessive sun exposure.”
UV rays from sunlight and tanning beds are the number one cause for skin cancers. Held says there have been a tremendous increase in malignant melanoma in the past five years in the Coastal Bnd. The 2-4 cases she used to see a year in her office alone has now turned into 2-3 cases per month.
And besides risking the chance of getting melanoma, 90% of the cause to the aging of your skin is the sun.
"That's what sunlight does,” says Sharon Laguerre. “It ages you quicker so a 40-year-old person looks like they're 20 years older."
Held makes an analogy that emphasizes the wearing effects of sunlight.
“As I tell my patients, think about that vehicle that's been sitting out in the sunlight for an extended amount of time,” she said. “The dash gets all cracked and broken and the upholstery gets all faded. That's exactly what's happening to the skin. That's ultraviolet damage."
Covering your skin and wearing sun screen daily, even in the winter, will save your face and body.
Held’s advice is to start this routine now. Itt's never too late, and eventually, your skin will be glad you did.
