Carasol's Message to You

Carasol seeks to bring a simple and honest message to all women, especially young women: it is necessary to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. Our goal is to make sun protection a fashionable, acceptable way of life for women who understand the importance of skin care. Women who are sun-conscious are often ridiculed for covering up their skin, and are taunted by those who think it is silly.

The reality is this:
* Just two minutes outside in the sun without protection can cause sun damage.
* Almost 50% of women have noticeable, permanent sun damage by their mid-20s, that is, more moles, freckles and brown spots.
* Up to 90 percent of the visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun.

The statistics for skin cancer are even more alarming:
* Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 1 million skin cancers are diagnosed annually.
* More than 90 percent of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure.
* A person's risk for skin cancer doubles if he or she has had five or more sunburns.
* One in 5 Americans and one in 3 Caucasians will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.

A growing number of women are coming to terms with the harsh reality of sun damage. These women are opting for preventative measures before it is too late. A great deal of damage occurs as we go about our daily lives, running errands, talking a leisurely walk--not just sitting outdoors and tanning under the sun. Sunscreen is a start and additional coverage is necessary. The only protective accessory that exists in the American market is a hat, which is often uncomfortable and a hassle to carry and pack. Concerned American women need another practical option. A Carasol parasol is the solution.

Remember that a parasol only offers protection from UV rays coming from above. Parasols do not offer protection from UV rays reflected off the ground, nor do they offer protection from UV rays diffused from particles suspended in the atmosphere, which can account for 30-50% of UV rays on the skin around midday. Asphalt reflects about 30% of UV rays, grass about 3%, sand between 5% and 25%, snow 30% to 80% and water 5% to 90%. It is important to use a parasol in conjunction with sunglasses and a strong sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA/UVB coverage all over the body. For maximum protection, the use of protective clothing is also recommended.**

During the fall and winter, it is important to use sunscreen on the exposed parts of the body. While UVB rays (burning rays) decrease significantly during these seasons, UVA rays (aging rays) do not decrease much and remain strong during the cold months.

Visit Carol's blog, I'd Rather Carry a Parasol, to keep up with current skin care findings and all other things skin related.

Statistics courtesy of The Skin Cancer Foundation* and Bioderma**.