Singapore is known for its tropical climate, with hot and humid weather all year round. While this may be great for those who love the sun, it also poses a risk to our skin. The intense heat and UV rays from the sun can cause damage to our skin, leading to various skin problems, including skin cancer. In this article, we will explore how Singapore's hot sun affects our skin and what we can do to prevent skin cancer.
The Hot Sun's Effects on Our Skin
Singapore's location near the equator means that it receives high levels of UV radiation from the sun. UV rays are a type of radiation that can penetrate the skin and cause damage to its cells. When we are exposed to the sun for extended periods, our skin can become dehydrated, leading to dryness, flakiness, and even sunburn. The hot sun can also accelerate the aging process, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
The Link Between Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer globally, and it is also one of the most preventable. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While all three types are caused by exposure to UV rays, melanoma is the most dangerous as it can spread to other parts of the body.
In Singapore, skin cancer is the 6th most common cancer among men and the 7th most common among women. This is due to the high levels of UV radiation and the fact that many Singaporeans spend a lot of time outdoors.
Prevention Methods
The best way to protect our skin from the hot sun is by using sunscreen. Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. When choosing a sunscreen, it is essential to look for one with a high SPF (sun protection factor) and broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Caring Skin’s UV Tone Up Sunscreen SPF 50+ is a lightweight oil-free sunscreen that provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection while providing a brightening tone up effect.
Aside from sunscreen, there are other protective measures we can take to prevent skin cancer:
- Wearing protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, long sleeve shirts
- Seeking shade during peak sun hours, especially between 10am and 4pm
- Staying hydrated while in the sun
- Checking your skin regularly for any changes
Staying hydrated is also essential when spending time in the sun. The hot weather in Singapore can cause us to sweat more, leading to dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and body hydrated.
To hydrate the skin, Caring Skin offers an Absolute Hydration treatment where it is a comprehensive treatment that helps to revive the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms, which can become less effective due to ageing and environmental factors. This treatment focuses on the core of our cells, enabling the skin to self-hydrate from the surface to the deep layers of the dermis. It also improves the skin’s ability to absorb active ingredients by stimulating microcirculation and providing a deep clean.
Alternatively, Caring Skin’s signature Probiotic facial is also a soothing and hydrating treatment for the hot weather – by combating acne outbreaks and restoring the skin’s natural balance, it will leave your skin feeling healthy and youthful.
Don’t underestimate the damaging effects that the Sun can have on our skin! With proper skincare and regular facials, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer by boosting your skin health.
What are you waiting for? Face life with confidence and book your appointment today!