How to Prevent Sun Damage in the Florida Sun
Year-round sunshine makes the Florida Keys a great place to vacation or live, but it also means an increased risk of sun damage. Too much sun can leave you with more than an uncomfortable sunburn; UV skin damage accumulates and can lead to advanced skin aging, skin cancer, and other lasting impacts.
At Keys Dermatology, we’re dedicated to keeping your skin healthy even on the brightest days. To help protect your skin, make sure you follow these 5 key tips from our board-certified dermatologists in Key West and Islamorada.
Limit Sun Exposure
The easiest way to prevent sun damage is to limit your exposure to UV rays as much as possible. That means staying indoors or under protective shade during the peak sunlight hours – between 10 AM and 4 PM.
If you must be outdoors for an extended period during this time frame, be sure to plan your outfit with sun protection in mind. Loose, light, breathable layers that protect your skin go a long way in preventing damage. Hats and sunglasses can also help to protect your face and eyes, which can be particularly sensitive to UV damage.
Wear (and Reapply!) Sunscreen Everyday
Is sunscreen a part of your daily skincare routine? If not, it should be! No matter your skin tone, using sunscreen is essential for protecting against the harmful effects of deep-penetrating UV rays and preventing significant skin damage.
Our typical recommendation is to reapply sunscreen every two hours when you are outdoors and in direct sunlight. However, if you’re planning to be in the water, playing sports, or participating in other sweat-inducing outdoor activities, it may be beneficial to reapply your sun protection more often.
Pay Attention to Skin Changes
Being mindful of changes in your skin is essential for early detection and prevention of sun damage. Look out for new spots, changes in the size or color of moles, and any rough or scaly patches. Sun damage can manifest as freckles, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines, and while some effects may seem minor, they can indicate deeper skin damage.
Get Your Annual Skin Exam to Spot Sun Damage
Yearly skin exams and regular self-exams are essential for detecting skin abnormalities that may indicate skin cancer or other conditions. At Keys Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists offer thorough skin exams that can identify even the earliest signs of trouble. Detecting issues like new growths, evolving moles, or unusual patches can be crucial for effective treatment. By scheduling annual check-ups and practicing sun safety, you can help protect your skin health and reduce the risk of serious skin conditions.
Know Your Treatment Options
If skin cancer is detected, understanding your treatment options can empower you to make informed decisions about your care. Depending on the type and stage of the skin cancer, options may include excision, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, topical treatments, or Mohs surgery, which offers precise removal of cancerous tissue.
Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist at Keys Dermatology can help you navigate these choices and determine the best approach tailored to your specific condition, ensuring the highest chance of successful treatment.
Protecting your skin from sun damage is crucial when living in a sunny area like the Florida Keys. By following these simple steps—limiting sun exposure, using sunscreen daily, staying vigilant about skin changes, and getting annual skin exams—you can maintain healthy skin and reduce the risk of serious conditions like skin cancer. Keys Dermatology is here to support your skin health journey with expert care and customized treatment options when needed, so you can safely enjoy the Florida sunshine year-round.
