Sun, Aging, and You

It's the heat of the summer. I don't know about you, but I'm about ready for the cooler weather of autumn. When that time comes, though, we still need to have all of the protective measures for our skin in place. Let's chat about that.

Are you using a sunscreen every day? If not, uh oh! We all might think that going a day without sunscreen is okay because, hey, it's just once. What we might not know is that sun damage is cumulative. Before you know it, you have sun spots showing up on your skin because you've skipped more and more days of sunscreen application.

You cannot see what's invisible to your eyes. That's the breathtaking damage! Take a look at this great video. Although I would suggest a more healthful brand than the one highlighted in this piece, it drives home the point very well.

Okay. Now that you've seen real examples of the hidden damage that the sun does, you might be wondering how to choose a sunscreen. Look at the SPF value. A broad spectrum SPF 30 is what I use because I'm protected from 96% of UV rays, both UV A (aging) and UV B (burning). Unless you have extreme sun sensitivity, you don't need to go higher than that. No matter who you are, apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go into the sun so that the product can absorb. You will also need to reapply product at least every four hours to maintain protection. If you are in water or perspire a lot, you'll need to put on more product after getting out of the water.

Should you use a physical sunscreen or a chemical sunscreen? The physical blocks are highly effective. However, who likes the chalkiness of the titanium dioxide and the zinc oxide? I don't. Beware of nano particles because the science doesn't indicate how those might be harming us. If choosing a chemical sunscreen, try to stick with those containing avobenzone and octosalate because don't seem to have the hormone disruption effects of PABA, octinoxate, homosalate, and oxybenzone. The sunscreen that I use contains mineral (to reflect) and chemical ingredients (to absorb and to break down). I suggest that after women apply their cream or lotion sunscreen, they use a mineral powder foundation that can be easily reapplied throughout the day because it offers the appealing color that we prefer and the physical components that offer us protection. If you use a spray-on product, your need to rub in that product just as you do a lotion or a cream.

Don't be shy about using your sunscreen? A tablespoon of it is good for your face. Two tablespoons are necessary for each appendage. If you are still in doubt about the protective value of sunscreen, perhaps this other video will open your eyes.

Until the next time, stay safe and protected.