With summer in full swing, you may find yourself spending more time outside. We’ve all heard about the damaging effects that UV light can have on our skin. That is why your family physician urges you to take precautions anytime you and your loved ones spend time outside. These tips can help you protect yourself from sun burns and other potential skin issues.
Choose the Higher SPF Rating
You might want a sun-kissed tan, but avoiding higher SPF ratings means the damaging UV rays are still getting to your skin. You should use a minimum of SPF 15 when outside to help protect your body. The higher the rating, the less chance you have of developing skin problems later in life.
Apply Before You Head Out
When heading to the beach, it is easy to decide to wait and apply your sunscreen there. However, it takes approximately 20 minutes for SPF 15 sunscreen to absorb into your skin. If you wait until you are already outside, you can consider the first half hour to be without protection.
The best method is to apply it before you dress. This way, you are already covered, and the areas that you might not be able to cover when outside are protected, as well.
Use A Broad Spectrum Sun Screen
UV light comes in two main forms, UVA and UVB. Most sunscreens protect against UVA light. However, any healthcare provider will tell you that UVB is just as dangerous. A broad spectrum sunscreen protects effectively against both.
Double Your Protection
Sunscreen is a great way to protect your skin. However, consider using both a sunscreen and a physical blocker. Physical blockers use active minerals, which sit on the skin’s surface. These ingredients then deflect damaging UV rays away from the skin. When used in combination with a chemical sunscreen, you significantly reduce your risks of developing skin cancer.
Summer is the time to enjoy the great outdoors. Remember, your family physician recommends you reapply your sunscreen at least once every two hours for maximum protection.