The sun is shining, the pool is open and everyone wants to be outside! Why? It’s summer of course! Many people spend the days outside, at the pool, at sporting events, cooking out. All of this leads to lots and lots of exposure to the sun! How can we protect ourselves from the rays of the sun? And why should we?
There are many reasons to slather on the sunscreen. Skin cancer is on the rise, and we need to protect ourselves from the damaging UV rays of the sun. But if the thought of skin cancer isn’t enough to convince you to wear sunscreen, there are many other reasons to apply it. By not wearing sunscreen during long periods of time with direct sun exposure, you also risk sunburn. Repeated sun damage causes skin to look thick, wrinkled and leathery. The ozone layer is depleting and your body needs protection from the harmful rays. Sunscreen helps prevent facial brown spots and skin discoloration. Sunscreen also slows down the aging process, and the onset of premature aging skin.
The good news is that sunscreen comes in a variety of forms these days. There are sprays and lotions, dry touch and moisturizing. It is important to use a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or above. It is also important to follow certain guidelines when applying sunscreen to get the maximum protection. Apply sunscreen 20 -30 minutes before going into the sun. Do this every time you are planning on spending 30 minutes or more in the direct sunlight. Do not use expired sunscreen, as it will no longer be effective, and also may cause skin irritation. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. It can be a good technique to apply a lotion sunscreen initially and then follow up with a spray sunscreen every 2 hours. Always apply sunscreen to children, if used regularly on children throughout their childhood it can significantly protect their skin in the future.
So go on, get outside and enjoy the sun! But remember to generously apply sunscreen before you do. Your skin will thank you.