Skincare and Ultraviolet Index

I gave up those glorious day's of laying in the sun all day in my mid twenties, and not because I ran out of "baby oil", but as we all know now, the sun damage to our skin occured in our youthful day's of unprotected sun exposure.  So now, we're all in recovery mode.  Wearing sunscreen has to be a regular part of your personal skincare regime, but I think it's also important for us to know when to stay out of the Sun's strongest exposure times altogether.  Knowing alittle about the UV Index and what it is in your area is beneficial to planning your day, especially if you spend time outdoors.

What Does The UV Index Mean?

Ultraviolet index (UVI) describes the level of solar Ultraviolet radiation at the Earth's surface and ranges from 1 to 11+ and higher the UVI, the greater the potential for damage to our skin and eyes. That means the damage to our skin happens faster! Sun damage causes cataracts, skin aging, and skin cancer. In addition, you need to be aware that the higher the UVI, the shorter the burn time.

Know Your UV Index

I believe it's important for us to know when the potential skin damage is high. For this reason I'm providing you with a quick look at today's UI index, called A Girl's UV Index, plus a four day UV forecast to help you know when to protect your skin on the high UV days.

Ways to reduce risk of UV overexposure:

• Be aware that UV radiation is highest from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Cover up with a hat, while working in your garden.
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
• Wear long sleeves.
• Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of at least 15 to exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours.
• Use extra caution near reflective surfaces such as water, snow and sand as they reflect damaging UV rays.
• Try to stay in the shade during midday hours.