If there is one thing you should always carry in your summer satchel and beyond the season, it is sunscreen or sunblock. No skincare routine is complete without it.
Practicing safe sun is essential to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Here are some tips to help you practice safe sun:
- Wear sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade: Stay in the shade during peak sun hours, usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to protect your skin from UV rays.
- Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV damage by wearing sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV rays and can increase your risk of skin cancer.
- Check your skin regularly: Check your skin for any unusual moles or spots and see a dermatologist if you notice any changes or concerns.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Remember, practicing safe sun is not just a summertime activity. UV rays are present year-round and can still cause skin damage in the winter and on cloudy days. By taking these steps, you can help protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely.
SUNBLOCK VERSUS SUNSCREEN
Sunblock and sunscreen are both products designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. However, they work in different ways.
Sunblock contains mineral-based ingredients, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which create a physical barrier on the skin’s surface to reflect and scatter UV rays. Sunblock is typically thicker and more opaque than sunscreen and may leave a visible white cast on the skin.
Sunscreen, on the other hand, contains chemical compounds that absorb UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. Sunscreen is available in a range of formulations, including lotions, sprays, gels, and creams. Some sunscreens may also contain physical blockers, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, to provide additional protection.
Both sunblock and sunscreen offer protection against UV rays, but sunblock may be more effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays. However, sunblock can be more difficult to apply and may not be as cosmetically elegant as sunscreen.
Ultimately, the choice between sunblock and sunscreen comes down to personal preference and skin type. It’s important to choose a product that you will use consistently and apply as directed to ensure adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
WHY USE IT DAILY?
Using sun protection daily is important for several reasons:
- Prevents skin damage: Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Using sun protection daily can help prevent these harmful effects.
- UV rays are present year-round: Even on cloudy or overcast days, UV rays can still penetrate the skin and cause damage. Therefore, it’s important to use sun protection daily, year-round.
- Consistent use is key: Using sun protection only occasionally or when you’re at the beach or pool may not provide adequate protection. Consistent use of sun protection daily can help prevent cumulative damage to the skin.
- Protects against different types of UV rays: UV rays come in two forms: UVA and UVB. UVA rays can cause premature aging and skin damage, while UVB rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both types of rays.
- Maintains skin health: Sun damage can lead to skin discoloration, wrinkles, and other skin problems. Using sun protection daily can help maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin.
In summary, using sun protection daily is an important step in maintaining skin health and preventing damage from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
HOW MUCH DO I NEED?
The amount of sun protection you need depends on several factors, including your skin type, the intensity of the sun’s rays, and the time of day. As a general rule, experts recommend using about 1 ounce (or a shot glass full) of sunscreen for the entire body, applied 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapplying every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
It’s important to note that many people do not use enough sunscreen or apply it as frequently as they should. To ensure adequate protection, it’s a good idea to use a generous amount of sunscreen and reapply frequently, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
For other forms of sun protection, such as hats or clothing, the amount needed will depend on the coverage provided by the item. In general, a hat with a wide brim can protect the face, neck, and ears, while long-sleeved shirts and pants can provide coverage for the arms and legs.
If you have questions about how much sun protection you need, or if you have concerns about how to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, it’s a good idea to talk to a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.
