The Pros and Cons of Sun Exposure.

Ahh, the sun. That big, bright and fiery ball of gas in the sky! On one hand, it provides us with much-needed warmth, light and vitamin D. On the other hand, it can cause skin damage, premature aging and, in extreme cases, skin cancer.

When it comes to sun exposure, it’s all about striking the right balance.

Too much sun may cause your skin to become burned, dry, and wrinkled; while too little can leave you feeling sluggish and deficient. Let’s quickly go over the pros of limited sun exposure.

Bring on the good vibes!

Sunlight provides Vitamin D which protects against disease, optimizes physical performance, and improves mental health. It also boosts serotonin levels which is a neurotransmitter in your brain responsible for your mood. In addition, Sunlight provides our bodies extra melatonin which helps to regulate hormones and sleep patterns.

Too much of anything is always a bad thing.

Here’s where the balance comes in. Excessive sun exposure can actually have some negative effects. Sunburn for example, is a sign of skin damage from getting too much sun. Making this a habit can result in premature aging. A tan may look nice now, but you sure don’t want to look like burnt toast later in life.

How much is too much?

Sun exposure can be beneficial but it’s important to be aware that too much can be detrimental to your health. Generally, it’s best to avoid spending multiple hours in direct sunlight, especially during peak times when UV rays are strongest.

If you’re planning on spending more than 20 minutes in the sun, wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is important. However, some sunscreens are harmful to marine life so it’s important to do your research.

You should also consider protective clothing and accessories like sunglasses, hats, and convenient beach umbrellas. These items can actually prevent sunburn and reduce your risk of skin cancer!

Finally, it’s important to be mindful of signs that you’ve had too much sun. These can include redness, painful skin, and fatigue. If you’re experiencing any of these, try to get out of the sun immediately and take a cool shower or bath.

Anchor Works is dedicated to providing this balance in a safe and convenient way. With our Anchor Works TM System, you’ll have sun when you want it, shade when you need it, and no worries that your umbrella might blow away and cause harm to other beachgoers.