The Power of Sun Protection, Seasonal Skincare, and Celebrating Summer with Empowered Health
Welcome to the first week of July! As summer heats up in the Tri-Cities—Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco—it’s the perfect time to refresh your wellness priorities, beginning with something vital: protecting your skin and overall health from the sun’s powerful rays.
Why Sun Protection Matters (More Than You Think)
UV (ultraviolet) radiation from the sun is responsible for up to 90% of visible skin aging, including wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging skin. This happens through a process called photoaging, where UVA rays penetrate the dermis—the deepest layer of your skin—and break down collagen and elastin. These two proteins are what give your skin structure and elasticity. When they deteriorate, skin becomes thinner, more fragile, and prone to fine lines and pigmentation.
Over time, UV radiation also increases oxidative stress, triggering free radical damage that further accelerates aging. These microscopic attackers damage cell membranes and DNA, which can not only cause premature aging but also increase your risk of skin cancer.
Fair-skinned individuals often notice signs sooner, but darker skin tones are also vulnerable to uneven tone, melasma, and subtle collagen loss if unprotected. Even more importantly, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, with UV exposure being the #1 preventable cause.
Scientific Snapshot:
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to aging.
- UVB rays cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
- Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin.
📍Local Tip: UV levels in Eastern Washington peak in July and August. Whether you're walking the Columbia River trails or relaxing at Howard Amon Park, daily sunscreen is a must.
Empowered Health’s Top 5 Sun Protection Tips
- Use a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Daily (yes, even indoors!)
- Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors
- Wear UPF clothing and wide-brimmed hats
- Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM
- Use antioxidant-rich skincare like ZO Skin Health, available at our clinic
Expert Quote from Dr. Monié:
“Every sunburn your skin remembers. Daily SPF is one of the most powerful longevity tools we have.”
Mini Quiz: Are You Sun Smart?
1. Do you apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days?
2. Do you reapply after sweating or swimming?
3. Do you check your skin monthly for new or changing spots?
4. Do you wear SPF lip balm?
Results:
- 4 YES answers: You're a sun safety pro!
- 2–3 YES answers: Good habits, but there's room to improve.
- 0–1 YES answers: Let’s level-up your sun care—your future self will thank you!
Seasonal Skin Support – More Than Moisturizer
Increased temperatures mean increased sweat and oil production, often leading to clogged pores, breakouts, or sensitivity. At Empowered Health, we recommend switching to lighter, gel-based moisturizers and rebalancing with antioxidant support.
ZO Skin Health: Our curated line includes SPF, lightweight hydrators, and exfoliating cleansers—ideal for Tri-Cities summers.
Ready to Take Control of Your Summer Health?
Our team at Empowered Health is here to support your personal wellness goals—from skin health to preventive medicine to whole-body optimization.
Schedule your inquiry call today and discover what personalized, concierge care looks like.
Empowered Health Institute
Why Empowered Health.
Time between patient and physician is dictated increasingly by the health system and insurance reimbursement. At Empowered Health, we take a membership approach to primary care in Tri-Cities that challenges the standard healthcare model.
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