Healthy Skin, Healthy Body = Happiness. As you know, your skin plays a huge role in protecting your body. Your skin is the organ that has most contact with the outside world. It protects you from many infections, while also holding in body fluids, which prevents dehydration. For these (and many other) reasons, it’s imperative to keep your skin healthy.
We all love getting a tan, but there are precautions that you need to consider when headed outdoors. Although a nice bronze can make you feel tight and toned, all that time roasting in the sun can have terrible, and sometimes deadly, side effects. Read on to stay healthy (and happy!)…
Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen.
Did you know that any change in skin color is actully a sign of sun damage from UV radiation? And repeated exposure to UV radiation can cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.
The sun causes up to 90% of aging. Make sunblock your best friend! When choosing a sunblock, opt for one that provides coverage against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Those products that contain zinc oxide and titanium work best and last longest. It’s also a good idea to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which means that when you apply it and step outside, the sun’s rays are reflected and are not absorbed by the skin. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapply every two hours, even if the bottle tells you it is “extended wear.” Always reapply after swimming and exercise.
Sunscreen should be used daily, not just during the summer months. It’s important to wear sunblock year-round, as the UV rays during the winter or on cloudy days are still active (up to 80% of UV rays hit the ground on overcast, winter days).
For a few top sunscreens endorsed by Skin Cancer Foundation, try the Obagi Nu-Derm Sunshield SPF 50 or the Colorescience primers in SPF20 and Sunforgettable Sunscreen Powders in SPF 30 and 50. See all of them, here: http://bit.ly/1bpI4Gy
Other Forms of Sun Protection
To boost your defenses, wear a hat or seek cover with an umbrella or heavy shade. Look for sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB light. Exposure to the sun without sunglasses can cause eye damage, and children’s eyes are especially vulnerable, as they are still developing. Make sure everyone utilizes proper eye protection!
If you expect to be in the sun for a while, opt for a sun shirt or clothing that contains UVA protection. And don’t forget about protecting your children with sun shirts, pants and hats. Skincare education at a young age is a great way to get your children accustomed to living a healthy life.
Signs of Sun Damage
There are many signs of sun damage that can worsen without real notice. Wrinkles, hyper pigmentation (also known as uneven skin tone) and an increase in freckles or “beauty marks” may be signs that your skin is soaking up too much sun. Skin cancer or melanoma is often a result of severe sun damage and extended sun exposure over time.
Interested in learning more about protecting your skin against sun damage? We’d love to have you in for a consultation. Book your appointment today at www.lartebellezza.com.
Resources:
- http://www.skincancer.org/products/categories
