As temperatures rise and we spend more time outdoors, we also have to take the appropriate safety measures needed. It doesn’t hurt to remind ourselves of the best tips to stay safe all summer!
Make it a ritual
Even on the cloudy day you still need to wear sunscreen daily. That’s because up to 80% of harmful UVA and UVB rays can pass through clouds. It’s UVA rays that are responsible for premature aging signs like wrinkles and brown spots, so make sure you’re protecting exposed areas with SPF 15 and above. This is the ultimate beauty advice that you will ever get!
We recommend: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion WetForce Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Know the facts about the sun protection factor
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is the measurement of how effective a sunscreen is from protecting you from UVB rays that cause sunburn. It gives you an indication of how long you can spend in the sun when wearing it. A simple formula is this: if you can normally spend 10 minutes in the sun without burning, SPF 15 will allow you to spend 15 times longer than – 150 minutes. But remember that SPF is only slowing down damage, not preventing it! So stay sun-safe by reapplying regularly and covering-up with light-weight summer clothes.
Avoid “cute” freckles
Did you know that freckles are actually a sign of sun damage? Freckles are formed when melanocytes, found in your skin cells, overproduce the pigment melanin. It’s melanin that naturally protects your skin from UV rays by causing it to tan and darken – like putting up a parasol for shade! Shield yourself (and your family) from future discoloration and always apply sunscreen, paying particular attention to freckle-prone areas, like your face, shoulders, and hands. We recommend a face mist with SPF like Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50. Besides the strong sun protection factor, this one will also set up your makeup. 👌
Mole Safety
Moles can vary in shape and sizes; but in general, they tend to be round in shape, and appear in fair-skinned people. Overexposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays can cause a mole to form or to change in appearance. So stay out of the midday sun and wear sunscreen all over, paying particular attention to your moles and mole-prone areas. And, if you see a mole that’s changing its characteristics, visit your doctor to get their advice.
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One shot of sunscreen, please.
It’s said that most people only apply 25 – 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. Don’t fall into that group. You should apply the equivalent of a shot glass, that is 1 ounce, dermatologists consider that amount is needed to cover the exposed areas of the body. Do that at least 15 minutes before you go outdoors. And don’t forget to reapply every few hours, especially if you’re swimming, perspiring, or rubbing at your skin.
Watch out for expiration date
All sunscreens will come with a “use by date” on them. You should never use sunscreen after it has expired. Sunscreens are designed to remain at original strength for up to three years If the color or consistency changes, it’s time to throw it away and get a new one.
Don’t forget your lips
The skin on your lips is just as prone to sun damage as the skin on your face. So, protect from UVB rays with a lip balm that contains SPF, like Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25
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