Canada is known as the “Great White North”. Therefore, our nation doesn’t get enough credit for its hot and sunny summers. With summer well underway, we’re not only experiencing warmer temperatures, we’re also enduring many hours of bright sunshine. It all makes for beautiful days – but dangerous conditions. Don’t think for a second that Canadians don’t need to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
How important is it for Canadians to protect themselves from the sun?
We can just as easily get skin cancer by not protecting ourselves as anyone else in the world. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada, even though the country isn’t exactly known for its warm climate. It is imperative that Canadians are aware of the potential dangers of sun exposure. We must all take precautions to protect our skin.
Canadians who work outdoors during the summer are particularly susceptible to skin damage. It’s best to stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. It is during those hours when the sun’s ultraviolet radiation is at its strongest. But for outdoor workers, that isn’t necessarily an option. As a result, those who work outdoors are at the highest risk of getting skin cancer.
What can outdoor workers do to protect themselves from the sun?
The Canadian Dermatology Association makes a number of suggestions. They advise outdoor workers to seek shade from buildings, trees, canopies, etc., as much as possible, especially during lunch and coffee breaks. They also recommend the wearing of wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Workers should also attach back flaps to construction helmets to cover the backs of their necks and visors for their faces.
In addition, the CDA recommends that outdoor workers wear clothing that covers as much of their bodies as possible. The key is to choose light fabrics that are loose and comfortable. It’s important, however, that the fabrics chosen are the types that don’t let light through.
How important is the use of sunscreen for outdoor workers?
Quite obviously, it couldn’t be more important! Firstly, the CDA advises that outdoor workers apply a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher that is broad spectrum. That means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. They insist that it be applied to all exposed areas of the skin before going outside. Secondly, it is recommended that the sunscreen be reapplied at midday or more often if there has been a lot of perspiration.
“No one is completely safe from the sun,” warns the Canadian Cancer Society, “In Canada, sunlight is strong enough to cause skin cancer, premature aging of the skin and harm to the eyes. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it’s also one of the most preventable.”
What can you do to protect your skin from the dangers of the sun?
At Aurora Skin & Vein, we carry a wide variety of high-quality skin care products from both Vivier and AlumierMD. Included is AlumierMD’s Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40. For more information about our products, please don’t hesitate to call Aurora Skin & Vein at 403-358-5818. You may also fill out the form on our Contact Us page!