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Take precautions to enjoy summer rays
Summer is a popular season to spend time relaxing outside. But getting too many rays can hurt your skin, said John Bowman, associate professor of pharmacy practice at the Texas A&M Health Science Center Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy.
"The best way to prevent sunburn is to learn about the causes," said Bowman, who recommends avoiding sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. He also warned of the danger of reflection from sand and water, which can potentially double the exposure to UV rays.
"Don't think that just putting an umbrella over you at the beach is going to block completely the effects of the sun," Bowman said. "You are going to have to take further precautions, such as sunscreen. Match the number on the sunscreen bottle to your skin type. If you have very dark skin, you really don't need a sun protection factor (SPF) greater than 10. If you are not fair-skinned or dark-skinned, you'll probably need between 10 and 15. If you are very fair-skinned, you'll need an SPF greater than 30."
Regardless of skin type, sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours to maintain protection, Bowman said.
If you do end up with a sunburn, he recommends several steps to help ease the pain.
"Before you go to bed, take an internal analgesic such as aspirin, naproxen or ibuprofen," Bowman said. "You should also use a topical anesthetic to deaden or numb the skin to help ease the burning sensation and discomfort. These products can be identified easily because their names typically end in 'caine.'"
Compare plastic water bottles
Did you know that drinking from some water bottles might be safer than others?
Some plastics used to make water bottles contain bisphenol A (BPA). There is inconclusive data on the health risk of BPA exposure, but research is ongoing.
"All plastics are marked with a number, and BPA can be identified by the No. 7 on the bottom," said Vincent Nathan, associate professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health.
Head of the Program in Public Health and Water Research at the school, Nathan says that to prevent BPA exposure, plastic bottles shouldn't be left in heated cars and hard plastic or metal water bottles are a better choice.
Stay hydrated but choose bottles without the No. 7 on the bottom until studies are concluded.
Picking the right pair of sunglasses
The hot weather and extended sunshine give us opportunities for outdoor activities -- as well as a greater opportunity to damage our eyes.
"Sun damage in and around the eyes has been linked to development of cataracts, macular degeneration, benign but vision-affecting bulky growths on the eyes, and both benign and cancerous skin lesions around the eyes," said William Riggs, assistant professor of surgery at the Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine and ophthalmologist with the Scott & White College Station Clinic. "Choosing the right pair of sunglasses does not guarantee you will not struggle with these issues, every bit of prevention is important."
Sunglasses are important for ultraviolet (UV) protection. Look for sunglasses with 100 percent protection from both UVA and UVB light or those labeled as "UV 400," Riggs said.
UV protection is not dependent on tint, as clear lenses can even be effective. Different lens colors serve different functions: Yellow or orange tints improve contrast, as do brown and amber; dark gray tints offer truer colors; and polarized lenses filter glare.
When choosing sunglasses -- or any protective eyewear -- make sure it is durable (impact-resistant). Lenses should cover an area larger than the eye and wrap along the sides of the temple to block debris and UV light. Keeping the lenses free of scratches and debris will maintain their protective properties, and frames should be sturdy, fit securely and be adjustable.
"Sunglasses found in the checkout aisle can be safe but may not be as high quality, polarized or a brand name," Riggs said. "The only medically important aspect is if they block UV light. After that, it's all personal style and preference."
