UV Safety Month: Protecting Your Skin & Boosting Its Health with Massage

July is UV Safety Month, a crucial reminder that while sunshine brings warmth and joy, it also carries risks for our skin. Increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and significantly raises the risk of skin cancer – the most common form of cancer in the United States.

Beyond the essential practices of wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and covering up, did you know that massage therapy can also contribute to overall skin health?

Here's how massage can benefit your skin:

• Improved Circulation: Massage increases blood flow, which delivers vital nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, promoting a healthy glow and aiding in cellular repair.

• Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage: This helps remove toxins and reduce puffiness, contributing to clearer, healthier skin.

• Stress Reduction: Stress can manifest on the skin, leading to breakouts or exacerbating conditions. Massage promotes relaxation, which can positively impact skin health.

• Detection of Changes: Regular massage can help you become more aware of your body, potentially noticing new or changing moles or skin irregularities that should be checked by a dermatologist.

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) highlights the important role massage therapists can play in skin health awareness, noting that "Massage therapists are in a unique position to support early detection efforts" of skin cancer by encouraging clients to be vigilant about changes in their skin.

Protect your skin this summer! Combine smart sun habits with the rejuvenating benefits of massage therapy for a truly healthy glow.