Smart Skincare: Four Essential Sun Protection Strategies

Sun damage not only creates signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, it also significantly increases your risk for skin cancer. Fortunately, both aging-related changes to the skin and skin cancer are largely preventable by taking measures to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Here are four sun-related skin care tips to try. 

1. Apply sunscreen daily.

While many of us only apply sunscreen when we’ll be spending significant time outdoors, it is important to wear sunscreen every day for maximum protection from sun damage. If you’ll be outside for longer than 15 minutes, make sure to apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on your face and any exposed areas of the body.

2. Apply sunscreen correctly.

Just slapping on sunscreen haphazardly isn’t enough. For ideal protection from sun damage, you should apply your sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more often if you get wet. You’ll need to use about a shot glass full of lotion to cover exposed skin sufficiently. Don’t forget often-overlooked areas like the ears, lips, face, and backs of hands. If you wear makeup, apply sunscreen underneath.

3. Check your watch.

Avoid spending substantial time in the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when damage-causing UVA and UVB rays are the strongest. When you are outside midday, try to stay in the shade or under an umbrella as much as possible.

4. Choose clothing wisely.

The right outfit will not only make you look great, but also provide ample sun protection. Look for tightly-woven cotton clothing in a dark color for maximum blockage from the sun’s rays. Your clothes should also cover the largest area of skin possible, so wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, and don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to cover your face and neck. Sunglasses that offer UV protection for your eyes are a must. Also remember that if clothing gets wet, it doesn’t provide as much protection as when the fabric is dry.

By following these steps, you can prevent sun damage, keep your skin looking young and healthy, and help lower your risk for skin cancer. At our office, we suggest investing in a great everyday sunscreen for your body and one for your face. Skinbetter Science® offers a wide variety of options to easily fit into our daily routines. Feel free to shop our online store or call the office to discuss what is best for your skin.