A reported 5 million people have some form of lupus, an autoimmune condition causing pain, fatigue, hair loss, and cognitive & physical issues affecting every facet of daily life. One of the challenges for lupus sufferers is time spent in the sun creates inflammation on the skin as well as rashes for some folks.
In summers, many people avoid being outdoors during the hottest and fiercest sun of the day. Lupus sufferers MUST avoid the sunniest part of outdoor life. While this may seem logical, a study has shown that Lupus sufferers can use a sunscreen (UV protection) to lessen their usual inflammatory response in the sun. It can also reduce tissue/skin lesion damage – so win/win right?
The thing with sunscreens is that it only works if it’s still on! So read your sunscreen instructions, and ensure you REAPPLY when you need to. Some people prefer to lather up with a crème lotion version and then reapply with a spray. When reapplying ensure that your skin is glistening with it. Remember to use more than 35 SPF, and use waterproof if you are in the water.
Enjoy the heart of summer activities!
