Summer Skin Care – What is the Right SPF For You?

WHAT IS AN SPF?

SPF stands for sun protection factor. Sunscreens are rated by the strength of their SPF. The SPF can range from as low as 2 to as high as 100. These numbers refer to the products ability to deflect the suns burning rays. It is strongly recommended to use a broad spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection). This helps protect against sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer.

WHAT IS A SUNSCREEN?

Sunscreen also known as sun block or sun cream is available as lotion, spray or gel that absorbs or reflects the suns UV radiation on skin exposed to sunlight and thus protects against sunburn.

WHAT ARE UVA AND UVB RAYS?

Sunlight consists of UVA and UVB rays. UVA exposure results in signs of premature aging- wrinkling and age spots. UVB are the suns burning rays and are the primary cause of sunburns. Excessive exposure to both can result in skin cancer.

WHEN AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD A SUNSCREEN BE USED? HOW MUCH SUNSCREEN SHOULD I USE?

A sunscreen should be applied everyday to exposed skin- even if you are not going to be out in the sun. A sunscreen can be applied under make-up or alternatively there are many cosmetic products that contain sunscreen for daily use. A sunscreen should not be reserved only for sunny days. Even on a cloudy day 80 percent of the suns uvrays can pass through the clouds.

Ideally, a sunscreen should be applied to dry skin 20-30 min before going outdoors. As they rub off as well as wash off, a sunscreen should be reapplied every 3-4 hours for continued protection. “Water-resistant” sunscreens loose effectiveness after 40 min in water hence should be reapplied every 2 hours after swimming or perspiring heavily.

One ounce or 2 tablespoons of sunscreen is considered the optimum amount needed to cover exposed areas of the body properly – which include- ears, face, neck and arms if necessary.

HOW TO BE SUN SMART?

· generously apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or more on exposed areas. Reapply every 2 hours.

· Wear protective clothing – long sleeve shirt, pants, hats with broad brims, sunglasses

· Seek Shade – suns rays are the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If your shadow is shorter than what you are – seek shade.

· Protect children – wear appropriate clothing, apply a sunscreen.

· Be extra cautious near water, snow and sand. Hey reflect damaging rays of the sun, hence the chances of getting sunburn are more.

· Avoid Tanning Beds.

· Have enough Vitamin D supplement. Prolonged use of sunscreen interferes with Vit D production, leading to its deficiency. Hence it is recommended to spend small amount of time in the sun without sun protection. This facilitates Vitamin D production.