Protecting Your Skin from the Sun

When the sun is out, it is easy to want to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. But you also need to be diligent about sun protection before you go out. UV rays will age and damage your skin, making you vulnerable to skin cancer or even simply wrinkles. You must protect your skin from the sun.

1. Your Daily Moisturizer:

The first thing that you should consider in sun protection is your daily moisturizer. Most face creams, including CC or BB creams, have some level of SPF in them. If it is less than 30, however, that is not going to take you very far. Ideally, all of your makeup would have SPF in it, including your primer, concealer, as well as your moisturizer, all in the effort of protecting your beautiful face. Remember that the creams will need to be reapplied for the best protection possible.

2. Rub it in:

Sure, spray sunscreens are easier to use than the standard lotion sunscreen, but spraying them is only doing half the work. Spray sunscreen still needs to be rubbed into the skin, making sure that it is placed everywhere and evenly, giving you the best protection possible.

3. Use High SPF:

Despite the science that has shown that you need a minimum of SPF 30 for UV protection, lower SPFs are still out there. Aim for SPF 50 or above to get the best protection possible for your skin. If you are concerned about how your skin will react to sunscreen, opt for one of the more natural or baby sunscreens, designed for sensitive skin. Then you will have solid protection while not risking a breakout.

4. Remember your Sunscreen:

Using sunscreen once a day is not going to cut it if you are out in the sun all day. Make sure you keep a bottle in your bag or purse to have it on hand if you find yourself out in the sun when you didn’t plan on it.

5. Cover up:

Believe it or not, there are many clothes on the market now that have UPF, or ultraviolet protector factor, built into them. This is like a sunscreen that is not going to wash off. Swimsuits, hats, and even shirts have UPF ratings to offer you an added protection against the sun.

6. Don’t Forget the Sunglasses:

Sunglasses come in all shapes and sizes, but the best shades to protect your eyes from the sun are the big ones that will cover your eyes and the area around your eyes. Most sunglasses these days will have UV filters, but you should make sure that the sunglasses are polarized and not mirror lenses. Mirror lenses can reflect the sun down on your face rather than just keeping it away.

7. Be Aware of Reflective Surfaces:

Hanging around sand, water, and even snow is going to make your skin more vulnerable to the skin since they reflect the UV rays back at you, intensifying your exposure. Make sure to follow our other tips to keep your skin safe and healthy.