Sun Protection in Northern California

Living in Northern California means enjoying abundant sunshine year-round, but with that comes the need for diligent sun protection. Whether it’s a sunny day at the beach or a mild afternoon in the mountains, your skin is constantly being hit with harmful UV rays when you’re outdoors. 

At NorCal Dermatology Group, we specialize in both medical and cosmetic treatments. We also know that sun protection is essential for maintaining your skin’s health, preventing long-term damage, and seeing the best results from your skincare procedures.

Why Sun Protection Is Crucial in Northern California

Northern California’s diverse climate ranges from coastal areas to high-altitude regions. It creates varied but consistent exposure to UV rays.

Even on cooler days or when the sky is cloudy, UV rays can penetrate and damage the skin. This exposure can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and, more importantly, skin cancer. 

Protecting your skin daily is the key to reducing these risks and preserving your youthful appearance.

Effective Sun Protection Strategies

Adopt a comprehensive sun protection routine to safeguard your skin in Northern California’s sunny climate.

Start with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Kylie Kofler, PA-C recommends sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. She also encourages patients to reapply sunscreen every two hours. This is especially important when swimming or sweating.

Along with sunscreen, consider wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses. To reduce the intensity of UV exposure, seek shade during peak sun hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

Even minor changes like these can make a major difference in keeping your skin healthy.

Signs of Sun Damage and When to See a Dermatologist

It’s important to be vigilant for signs of sun damage, which can include:

• Dark spots
• Rough patches
• Changes in mole appearance 

If you notice any of these changes, schedule a skin check at NorCal Dermatology Group. Early intervention can prevent sun damage from progressing into more serious conditions, such as skin cancer.

Schedule a Consultation with NorCal Dermatology Group

Protecting your skin is an ongoing process, and NorCal Dermatology Group is here to help. If you need advice on the best sunscreen for your skin type, a comprehensive skin check, or anything in between, our experts are ready to provide personalized care.

Schedule a consultation today to find out how you can keep your skin healthy and radiant. Call 510-646-8065 or book an appointment online.