As we head into winter, we'd like to share some tips on how to stay protected this season. As an added bonus, we've included an offer at the end for a FREE sunscreen!
Enjoy the season safely!
Don't forget the eyes!
Sunlight reflecting off snow, sand or water further increases exposure to UV radiation, increasing your risk of developing eye problems such as cataracts.
Long hours on the beach or in the snow without adequate eye protection also can result in a short-term condition known as photokeratitis, or reversible sunburn of the cornea. This painful condition--also known as "snow blindness"-can cause temporary loss of vision.
When buying sunglasses, look for a label that specifically offers 99-100% UV protection. This assures that the glasses block both forms of UV radiation. Eyewear should be labeled "sunglasses." Be wary of dark or tinted eyewear sold as fashion accessories that may provide little or no protection from UV or visible light. Consider that light can still enter from the sides of sunglasses. Those that wrap all the way around the temples can help. Children should wear real sunglasses-not toy sunglasses-that indicate the UV protection level. Polycarbonate lenses are the most shatter-resistant.
Winter's Coming: Stock up on Sunscreen
"Don't put away the sunscreen in the winter just because the days are short and the sun is low in the sky," says Noreen Nicol MS, RN, FNP, Chief Clinical Officer at National Jewish Medical and Research Center. "Winter sports enthusiasts can face just as much risk of sunburn as summer sunbathers when exposed skin isn't protected."
Nicol explains that snow amplifies the burning potential of the sun by reflecting the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) that causes sunburns. At higher elevations, where skiers and snowboarders generally play, the thinner atmosphere screens out significantly less of the incoming UVR than it does at lower elevations.
Sunburn and other sun-caused damage to the skin increase the risk of developing skin cancer. More than 1 million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. Ms. Nicol offers several tips for avoiding sun damage and skin cancer during winter months.
Sunscreen. When selecting a sunscreen, look for the label "broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)" and a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. "Sunscreen isn't fully effective right away," says Nicol. "For the best protection, apply sunscreen half an hour before going out in the sun. Then apply it generously and apply it often- don't forget your ears, neck and hands." Discard old or expired sunscreen.
Eye Protection. Wrap-around sun glasses and ski goggles with appropriate UV protection can protect both the eyes and the skin around them.Hat. Wear a wide-brim hat that protects the face and back of the neck.
Peak Hours. The most significant sun exposure occurs between 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Either put on extra sunscreen then or take a break from the sun and get some lunch.
FREE SUNSCREEN!!
Stock up on Sunglasses and Ski Banz now!! With any purchase of $30 or more, receive a Baby Blanket Sunscreen Stick (a $5.00 value) FREE!Use coupon code WNTR to save today!
Offer Expires: October 31, 2008
Offer cannot be combined with other coupons or offers.
