Protecting your skin with sunscreen is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Make sure to choose the best sunscreen type for each activity. Check the ingredients in the sunscreen to ensure that they are safe for children and will not cause environmental problems, such as coral reef damage.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a minimum of 30 SPF sunscreen with broad-spectrum UV protection. Both UVA and UVB sunlight prevention are important. Ultraviolet A (aging) rays cause sun damage on face and lips. Ultraviolet B (burning) rays cause sunburn. The SPF number indicates the time you can spend in the sun before getting a sunburn. If you burn in 15 minutes without sunscreen, you can stay out 30 to 50 times longer (15 minutes x 30 or 50).
1.Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
The instructions on a sunscreen package should list instructions for proper usage including:
- Apply every two hours
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
- Re-apply after washing hands or towel drying
- Expiration Date (usually 1 year)
Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide both UVA and UVA sun ray protection without harsh chemicals. Sunscreens with natural minerals benefit adults with sensitive eyes or children over age six.
2. Limit Your Time in the Sun
The sun is most intense throughout the summer months between 10 am and 2 pm. You are more likely to sunburn your skin during this time. Although you might be able to reverse sun damage on face, prevention is more effective.
Untreated window glass in your home or car blocks UVB rays but not UVA rays. You should wear sunscreen on your hands and face when driving the car. Install UV blocking sheer drapes in your home windows. These drapes protect your skin, reduce fading on furniture and offer insulation against heat and cold.
3. Wear SPF Protective Clothing
Besides your face, your ears, neck and scalp are susceptible to sunburn. These areas are hard to reach to apply sunscreen. Wearable sunblock is a good alternative.
Outdoor specialty clothing stores offer UV protective clothing. Hats, shirts and pants made with special fabric offer protection up to SFP 50. These clothing types eliminate the need to constantly re-apply sunscreen. Certain UV protective gear is specifically designed for water sports.
4. Use Environmentally Friendly Sunscreen
A lot of sunscreen products are beneficial for you, but may be harmful to the environment. An earth-friendly sunscreen product protects you and the earth at the same time. Sunscreen protects you from sunburns, skin damages, and early aging caused by harmful UVA and UVB rays, blue light from electronic devices, and pollution damage.
Check the sunscreen package for harmful ingredients that can be absorbed by the skin of children. Some ingredients can poison sensitive marine environments. Some sunscreen makers list, ‘reef friendly’ and ‘no animal testing’ on the package.
Oxybenzone is a UV light absorber and stabilizer. It is found in sunscreen, makeup and hair products. The skin may absorb this chemical. It may cause environmental problems, such as coral bleaching. Even showering or hand-washing can release this chemical into the environment. If you are concerned, use a mineral sunblock.
5. Consult Your Doctor
The recommendations listed on sunscreen packages are intended for healthy individuals. Have your doctor check your skin for any problems. The doctor may suggest limiting sun exposure based on your skin type and family history.
These are all good tips. I have implemented mos of them.