As warm weather beckons, it’s natural to flock
outside, ready to embrace fun in the Colorado sun. But living at elevation with
so many cloudless days comes at a price; Colorado has skin cancer rates higher
than the national average.
Does this mean UV rays should leave your
summer DOA? Not if you wear sunscreen and lots of it.
Why Sunscreen is
Vital
As mentioned above, the biggest reason to use
sunscreen is the threat of skin cancer; it’s among the most common cancers in
the US. Fortunately, the large majority of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas, which are almost always
benign in nature and a simple procedure to have them removed is curative. Other
types of skin cancer, such as squamous cell and melanoma, may also be cured upon
removal, but can prove deadly when left untreated or discovered too late.
Sunscreen dramatically reduces the risk of
skin cancer by preventing UV rays from damaging the skin. Some sunscreens do
this by scattering the UV rays before they can penetrate the skin while other
sunscreens absorb the UV rays, acting as a shield in the process.
Of course, sunscreen doesn’t just protect your
health; it protects your stunning good looks, as well. In other words, if skin
cancer doesn’t scare you, perhaps wrinkles will. Sunscreen helps sidestep signs
of aging by preventing sun spots, lines, and sagging skin that too much sun
exposure tends to cause.
People with lighter skin tones tend to be more
susceptible to sun damage than those who have darker skin. People with light
skin, blue or green eyes, or blond or red hair are
even more at risk. But UV rays don’t discriminate and have the potential to
harm anyone, regardless of genetic factors.
The Advantages of
Non-Toxic Sunscreen
Doctors agree that any sunscreen is better
than no sunscreen at all, but many people prefer their lotion and spray to be
chemical-free, especially if sunscreen is something they wear every day or use
on their children.
Non-toxic sunscreens use mineral UV filters of
zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin without being
absorbed into the bloodstream (setting them apart from many chemical formulas
that have the potential to disrupt hormone levels). They tend to be less
irritating than other sunscreens, making them especially useful for people who
have eczema, dermatitis, and other conditions that leave the skin easily
inflamed. Non-toxic sunscreens are also eco-friendly options for those
conscious about their carbon footprint. In short, they’re better for your real
mother and your Mother Earth.
Non-Toxic
Sunscreen Brands to Try
While it might be easy to question the
effectiveness of natural sunscreens, they can prevent sunburns and sun damage
just as well as chemical-heavy options. This isn’t to say that all brands are
created equally; some are more recommended than others, just as with all kinds
of products.
Some of the best non-toxic brands to try
include Grown Alchemist Natural Hydrating Sunscreen, Unsun Mineral Sunscreen, The Organic Pharmacy Cellular Protection Sun Cream,
Alba Botanica Sunscreen, and Elta MD.
When it comes down to it, everyone benefits
from wearing sunscreen. In Colorado, it's as vital as flip-flops. Opting for
nontoxic products is the best way to enjoy your days in the rays without worry.
The Piedmont Apartments in Avon, Colorado
offers luxurious, modern homes for residents that blend privacy with epic views
of the Rocky Mountains. Contact us today to learn more about mountain
town living in our picturesque apartments.