Did you know the ingredients in your sunscreen are just as important as its sun protection factor (SPF)?
Did you know that applying sunscreen only once per day is not enough?
Did you know sun damage can increase the appearance of freckles, age spots, sun spots, discoloration, scarring, and other signs of aging?
If you answered “no” to any of the above, you may want to take a second look at your skin care routine. Whether you live here in Idaho Falls or anywhere else under the sun, sun protection is the most important step you can take in your anti-aging plan every single day — whether you’re having fun outside or just driving down the highway. But now that the weather’s warming up, the sun is shining, and we’re all spending more time outside, it’s the perfect time to reevaluate the sun protection products you’re using. The simple tips that we’ve outlined here can help you build a sun protection plan that’s perfect for your skin type and lifestyle.
Read the Labels
When you’re looking for the perfect sunscreen product, you should take note of a few factors. First, check to make sure the product has “broad-spectrum” coverage, which means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Because only UVB rays cause sunburns, the SPF rating on a product refers to its ability to block that type of ray. However, both types of ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer and damage to skin, so you’ll want to ensure you’re completely covered.
Second, make sure your sunscreen has some of the strongest UV blocking ingredients, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients are mineral-based sun protection ingredients, and work to deflect the sun’s rays right off your skin. You may also opt for a chemical sunscreen which absorbs and dissipates the UV rays within your skin. Chemical ingredients to look for include oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate.
Timing Is Everything
SPF ratings dictate how long the product will protect you from sun damage. The higher the SPF, the longer you’ll be protected. To be safest, you’ll want to reapply every few hours, depending on how much time you’re outside and how much you’re sweating.
If you’re just spending a few short minutes in the sun, you may consider using a mineral foundation that contains an SPF. However, if you’re going for a run, sitting down for an outdoor meal, or just soaking in the rays, you’ll have to either reapply the mineral foundation or layer on an additional mineral sunscreen product. Read the directions for reapplication, be diligent, and watch the clock. If you forget to reapply, you may be faced with the sun damage you were hoping to prevent.
Stock up on Favorites
Before you go outside and suffer the effects of summer’s first sunburn, stock up and be prepared! One of the staff’s favorite lines is jane iredale®, which we’re proud to carry at our plastic surgery practice. This line contains protective products such as the mineral foundation, which contains 14% titanium dioxide and 3% zinc oxide. Remember, if you’re going to be outside for more than 15 minutes you’ll want to wear sunscreen underneath that foundation. And don’t forget about your lips! This sensitive area is equally prone to sun damage. jane iredale’s Lipdrink has an SPF rating of 15, plus hydrating ingredients to keep lips both soft and safe.
You’ve heard the phrase “knowledge is power,” and it couldn’t be more true for skin care. The more you know about the products you’re using, the more effectively you’ll be able to care for your skin.
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