Sunscreen
Summer is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means spending more time outdoors in the sun. While it's important to soak up some Vitamin D, it's equally essential to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. That's where sunscreen comes in.
Sunscreen comes as a lotion, spray, gel, or other topical product that helps to protect your skin from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays can damage your skin in a number of ways, including premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen works by either absorbing or reflecting UV radiation, preventing it from penetrating your skin.
There are many benefits to using sunscreen regularly. Firstly, it can help prevent sunburn, which can be incredibly painful and uncomfortable. Sunburned skin is also more susceptible to damage, so preventing it is crucial. Sunscreen can also help prevent skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States. By protecting your skin from UV rays, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
In addition to preventing skin damage and cancer, sunscreen can also help prevent premature aging. UV rays can cause your skin to become dry, wrinkled, and discolored, which can make you look older than you actually are. By protecting your skin with sunscreen, you can keep it looking youthful and healthy.
Choosing the right sunscreen can be overwhelming, as there are so many different types and brands available. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for sunscreen:
Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen: This means that the sunscreen will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30: The higher the SPF, the more protection your skin will have. However, an SPF of 30 should be sufficient for most people.
Consider your skin type: If you have oily skin, look for a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen. If you have dry skin, choose a sunscreen with moisturizing properties.
Check the expiration date: Sunscreen does expire, so make sure to check the date before you buy it.
Using sunscreen is easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you're getting the most protection possible:
Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside: This will give the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin.
Use enough sunscreen: You should use about one ounce of sunscreen (about the size of a shot glass) to cover your entire body.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours: Sunscreen can wear off over time, so make sure to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Don't forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin: This includes your face, ears, neck, and any other areas that are not covered by clothing.
Sunscreen is a crucial component of any skincare routine, especially during the summer months. By protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, you can prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. When shopping for sunscreen, make sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and consider your skin type. And remember to apply enough sunscreen and to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy and glowing.
P.S. The sunscreen in your makeup doesn’t count! To get enough coverage from the SPF in makeup you would need a significant amount of product, likely much more than you would want to use.
As always, we have done the research for you! Below are two of our favorite sunscreens.
Revision Skincare Intellishade
A 5-in-1 daily anti-aging moisturizer with SPF 45
Formulated to correct, protect, conceal, brighten and hydrate skin
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Broad spectrum protecting from both UVA and UVB radiation
Comes in original, matte, truphysical
Contains vitamin C which helps protect the skin from free radicals and further damage
Jan Marini Physical Protectant
Purely physical providing UVA and UVB protection
Water resistant
Enhanced with antioxidants to protect from free radicals and prevent further damage
Comes in tinted and untinted
