Let me share the best tips when choosing a sunscreen. If you practice these tips you will have more youthful and radiant skin. These tips are healthy and more importantly effective for sun protection.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
SPF 30
- SPF 30 is most recommended by dermatologists.
- SPF or Sun Protecting Factor is an indicator for protection from Ultra Violet or UVB ONLY. SPF does not protect against UVA. An SPF 50 only provides 1% more protection than an SPF 30.
Mineral based ingredients
- Zinc oxide is a mineral ingredient that creates a physical barrier, and is the most broad spectrum ingredient protecting you from the UVB and most of the UVA rays.
- Titanium dioxide is another mineral ingredient that creates a physical barrier.
Broad spectrum
- Sunscreen products that protect against all types of sun-induced skin damage.
- “SPF 15” (or higher)
Water Resistant
- Water resistance is an indication of whether the sunscreen allows 40 minutes or 80 minutes sun protection while swimming or sweating.
- Manufacturers cannot label sunscreens as “waterproof” or “sweat proof” any longer.
HOW TO APPLY
- Apply a dime size amount for face
- Apply a shot glass amount for entire body
- Reapply every 2 hours – sunscreen can degrade in the sun
- Reapply after getting out of water – sunscreen can be removed when using a towel or it can rub off on clothing
AVOID:
- Oxybenzone, a synthetic estrogen which can disrupt the hormone system when it penetrates the skin. 4
- Vitamin A, which is listed as retinyl palmitate or retinol. Scientific studies indicate that tumors and/or lesions develop sooner.
- Direct sun between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 pm if you are not wearing sunscreen. This is when UVB rays are prominent.
- Do not use sunscreen with insect repellent. Buy a bug repellent separately if needed, and apply it first.
OTHER SUN PROTECTION MEASURES
- Find shade.
- Wear a wide brimmed hat – 3 inches or more in width.
- Wear UPF clothing.
- Enjoy the outdoors in early morning or late afternoon.
- Don’t forget your lips or tips of ears
- Wear sunglasses. UV radiation may cause cataracts.
- Increase protection when near water, sand or snow, as UVA reflects off all three.
Image: Dreamstime, June 28, 2016
Sources: Skin Cancer Foundation, EWG, FDA
