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Six Tips to Get Sun Care Smart This Summer

Monday - July 2nd, 2018
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While we usually discuss issues related to oral health on this blog, with it being summertime, we want to highlight skincare. Leaving your skin unprotected from the sun’s rays can lead to a painful sunburn and serious damage your skin, to boot. Avoid having to break out the aloe vera with these tips.

Tip #1: Set Yourself Up For Sun Protective Success.

Success equals applying your SPF 15 minutes before heading out in the sun and reapplying every 2 hours and right after being in the water.

Tip #2: Be a Conscious Wearer.

Know what sun protection factor is in your sunscreen. SPF 30 and above will protect you from 97% or more of UVB rays that are likely to cause sunburns and even skin cancer. Look for products labeled Broad Spectrum skin shield. These products protect against UVB AND UVA, which causes both aging and skin cancer. Also remember to get rid of sunscreen past its expiration date. SPF is ineffective at this point and you might as well be wearing sunscreen scented lotion.

Tip#3: Use the Buddy System.

Ask a friend to help you get to those hard to reach places like your back. You can keep each other accountable with friendly reminders to reapply every two hours.

Tip#4: Outsmart the Sun.

When you think you’ve covered every spot with sunscreen, think again. The sun’s rays are able to permeate through fabric, which is why you should be applying sunscreen to all areas of your body, not just the ones that come in direct contact with the sun. You can even buy clothes with SPF called UPF, Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which deflects UV transmission or laundry products that add sun protection to your clothing.

Tip #5: Check yourself.

Commonly forgotten areas are the feet, back of hands, necks, ears, and the top of your head. Make sure your sunscreen is reaching these areas.

Tip #6: Find A Product That Fits Your Lifestyle.

Sunscreen is available in lotions, sprays, and sticks. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, so as long as you’re wearing one of them you should be covered. Lotions are known to be hydrating. Sprays are easy to use, though the FDA recommends people with respiratory problems stay away. Sticks are great for long-lasting coverage and water activities. You should get a face-specific sunscreen though. It is formulated to be less harsh on the skin and has ingredients that fight aging (who doesn’t want that!). And lastly, don’t forget your lips.

Suncare doesn’t have to be hard. By arming your skin with sunscreen, you’ll be able to enjoy all the wonderful things summer has to offer risk free!