Picture this: You’re getting ready for the beach. You grab your towel, a book, water bottle, sunglasses and, oh no! You forgot the sunscreen. Why? Because you’re trying to tan. Flash forward 30 years and you’re desperately trying to turn back the clock because you didn’t use the SPF your younger self was begging for.
Sunscreen is like royalty for your skin, and those who respect the throne have the longest rein.
Learning how to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is an essential part of skin care, and not something to just be cognizant of when heading to the beach. Sun protection should start first thing in the morning when you get ready for your day. SPF infused moisturizers are a great way to incorporate sunscreen into your routine. Though these products can vary in strength, aim for at least 30 SPF.
Right here at Skin Resource.MD we offer a Hyaluronic Tinted Moisturizer Sunscreen gloating with an impressive SPF of 44.
As the changing weather and seasonal depression sets in, it may seem the sun has disappeared completely. It hasn’t! Wearing sunblock in the winter is just as important, sometimes even more so. Though the air feels cold, UV rays can penetrate cloud coverage and even reflect off snow intensifying the amount of protection you may need.
If you’re still not sold on the importance of solar protection, here’s what happens when you let sun invade your membrane: wrinkles, dark spots, redness, dryness, premature aging, permanent damage and a much higher risk of skin cancer.
With that being said, let’s go over some extra tips and tricks to tackling the SPF strategy.
- Application Amount Matters: I know no-one likes feeling oily, but you need at least a nickel-sized amount for your face and a shot of vodkas worth for your body.
- Reapplication is Key: Sunscreen application diminishes over time especially if swimming, sweating, or partaking in other physical activities. Try to reapply every couple hours.
- Expiration Date Matters: Even sunscreen expires, outdated products can be less effective.
- UV Rays Penetrate Windows: Damaging rays can move through glass, so even if you’re sitting inside or driving you’re still susceptible to UV.
- SPF in Makeup: It’s wonderful that there are some foundations and similar products that offer SPF. Though this can’t hurt, it’s usually not enough in comparison to a traditional sunscreen or infused moisturizer.
- Not All Sunscreens are Equal: Since there are two types of EV rays: UVA and UVB, look for “broad-spectrum” which protects you from both types. Additionally, mineral sunscreens start acting immediately while chemical sunscreens need ~15-30 minutes to activate. Look for mineral (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) when you can.
As a last reminder, it’s important to note SPF never blocks all rays. Wearing long sleeves, hats, and other protective garments can help shield your skin. Being diligent about sunscreen isn’t always convenient, but it’s a small tradeoff for dealing with the effects of neglected skin later in life.
Join the sunscreen dream team. x
