The TLDR on Summer Skin Health
Your Quick-Hit Guide to Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the summer sun is essential for preventing damage and signs of aging. Here’s a quick guide to why and how you should do it:
Why Protect Your Skin?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is invisible but harmful. It aids in vitamin D production but can also increase the risk of skin cancer with excessive exposure.
Types of UV Radiation
Why Protect Your Skin?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is invisible but harmful. It aids in vitamin D production but can also increase the risk of skin cancer with excessive exposure.
Types of UV Radiation
- UVA: Penetrates deeper, causing aging, wrinkling, and tanning. Long-term exposure raises skin cancer risk.
- UVB: Affects the outer skin layers, leading to sunburns, skin spots, and increased cancer risk.
- UVC: Absorbed by the atmosphere and doesn’t reach the Earth’s surface. So, you only need to worry about UVA and UVB.
5 Top Tips for Sunscreen Application
- Choosing Sunscreen: Opt for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- How Much to Apply / Reapply: Use about 1 ounce of sunscreen (the amount to fill a standard shot glass) to cover all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating, to maintain protection.
- Don’t Miss These Spots:
- Tops of Feet: Exposed with sandals or shorts.
- Neck and Ears: Often overlooked.
- Top of Head: Important if you have thinning hair or a bald spot.
- When to Apply: Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outside to ensure it absorbs and creates an effective barrier.
- Protect Your Lips: Use lip balm or lipstick with SPF 30 or higher to shield your lips from sun damage.
Incorporating these sun safety tips into your daily routine will ensure you enjoy your summer with peace of mind. So, don’t skimp on sunscreen—your skin will thank you for it!