Well we certainly hope so anyway…

We remind our clients to use sunscreen all the time! I’m sure they are tired of hearing it but we can’t stress it enough. It is the #1 form of Cancer in the Country and it causes more than 80% of wrinkles and discoloration on our skin. So hear we go again, reminding you of all the important information you need to protect yourself.

Select a sunscreen you love

Finding a sunscreen you love is the key motivating factor for using it regularly.

Fortunately, there are plenty of lightweight, sheer, non-comedogenic formulas on the market. But shopping for sunscreen can be very confusing so continue reading, it will help you find the one that’s perfect for you.

Remember, SPF 30 is the new 15

As a general rule, SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97% and SPF 50 blocks 98%. Doctors now typically recommend at least SPF 30 and most say that anything higher than SPF 50 doesn’t offer more protection. The truth is no sunscreen provides 100% protection. So remember to reapply every two hours and after a swim, even if you used the water-resistant sunscreen.

FYI, all sunscreens have expiration dates so be sure yours hasn’t expired.

Check labels for the term broad-spectrum

It means the sunscreen provides protection against both UVA (wrinkle and cancer-causing) and UVB (burning) rays.

If there’s no broad-spectrum mention on the sunscreen product, check the ingredients for zinc or avobenzone, the only two that provide top-notch UVA coverage.

Slather it on

Think you apply enough? Almost no one does. Instead of following old advice to use a shot glass-size dose, apply two coats. Squeeze a line of lotion down your arms and legs and rub in, then do it again. Do the same with spray formulas. Hold the nozzle close to your skin and spray, moving slowly up and down, then go back over the area.

For your face, apply a pea-size drop to each cheek, your forehead and your chin, then rub it in and repeat! And don’t forget your nose, hair part (or whole head if bald), ears, the tops of your feet/hands and the back of your neck.

Get extra insurance with Antioxidants

Companies are now including antioxidants such as Green Tea and vitamins C and E to help reduce damage, since rays can still get through sunscreen.

If you don’t want to bother applying a serum that contains them beneath your moisturizer or sunscreen (the best way to provide extra protection), try one of the new souped-up SPF picks.

Remember sunscreen is only one part of a sun-smart plan

The plan for sun protection should be avoidance first, then seek shade and wear a wide-brim hat and protective clothing, then use sunscreen. However, most people have it backwards. The sun is strongest midday, so heading to the beach or pool in the morning is best. Bringing an umbrella and protective clothing is a good idea as well.

BE SAFE AND STAY COOL!

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