Charleston Sun: Humidity Hiding Skin Burn Risk?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Charleston hangs thick and heavy, a constant reminder of the humidity that clings to everything. But that muggy air hides a dangerous secret: it can actually increase your risk of sunburn. Many Charleston residents, lulled into a false sense of security by the cloud cover that often accompanies the humidity, end up with painful, unexpected sunburns.
The science behind this phenomenon is surprisingly straightforward. Water vapor in the air can act like a lens, scattering and intensifying UV radiation. This means that even on overcast days, you’re still getting a significant dose of UV rays, and the humidity can actually make it worse.
So, how do you protect yourself from the sneaky Charleston sun? It’s more than just slapping on any old sunscreen.
First, understand the UV Index. Many weather apps, including the local Charleston news stations’ apps, provide a daily UV Index forecast. Pay attention to this! A UV Index of 3-7 means you need protection, and 8+ means you really need it.
Next, choose the right sunscreen. Don’t skimp on SPF. Aim for SPF 30 or higher. But here’s the crucial part: look for “broad spectrum” protection. This means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to premature aging and skin cancer. Both are bad.
Apply sunscreen liberally. Most people don’t use enough. You should be using about an ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Reapply, reapply, reapply! Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. This is especially important in Charleston’s humid climate, as sweat can wash away sunscreen. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
Consider the time of day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your outdoor activities during these hours. If you must be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
Wear protective clothing. Wide-brimmed hats are your best friend. They shield your face, neck, and ears from the sun. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants can also provide excellent protection. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.
Hydrate! While not directly related to sunscreen, staying hydrated helps your skin stay healthy and resilient. Dehydration can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when you’re outdoors.
Now, let’s talk about some specific Charleston scenarios.
Imagine you’re spending the day at Isle of Palms. The ocean breeze feels refreshing, but don’t be fooled. The reflection of the sun off the water intensifies UV exposure. Apply sunscreen even more frequently, and consider wearing a rash guard, especially if you’re surfing or swimming.
What about strolling through the historic downtown? The buildings provide some shade, but the sun can still sneak through. Wear a hat and sunglasses, and reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you’re walking for extended periods.
Even a quick trip to the grocery store can be risky. If you’re parking your car in direct sunlight, you can get a sunburn through the windows. Apply sunscreen before you leave the house, even if you’re only going out for a few minutes.
Common mistakes Charleston residents make:
- Thinking cloud cover means no sunburn. Wrong! Clouds only block some UV rays.
- Not reapplying sunscreen often enough. Sweat and water wash it away.
- Using expired sunscreen. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date.
- Forgetting to protect their lips. Use a lip balm with SPF.
- Neglecting their ears. This is a common spot for skin cancer.
If you do get a sunburn, treat it immediately. Cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help soothe the pain and inflammation. Avoid picking at the skin, as this can increase the risk of infection.
But prevention is always better than cure. Regular skin cancer screenings are crucial, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or have had multiple sunburns.
Here are some local Charleston resources for skin cancer screenings and dermatologist recommendations:
- The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center offers comprehensive skin cancer screenings and treatment.
- Roper St. Francis Healthcare also provides dermatology services and skin cancer screenings.
- Many private dermatology practices in Charleston offer skin cancer screenings. Ask your primary care physician for a referral.
Don’t underestimate the Charleston sun, especially when the humidity is high. By following these tips, you can protect your skin and enjoy all that Charleston has to offer without risking a painful sunburn. Remember, healthy skin is happy skin!