Using Common Sense with Spring Sun Care
You might think that springtime sun exposure is less dangerous than summer sun exposure. After all, it isn’t as warm and therefore the sun must not be as strong - right? Wrong. UVA rays from the sun are consistent all year round - not just in the summer. So, take heed and protect your skin against damage, aging, and skin disease.
Here’s some common sense sun protection tips for spring (and summer, fall, winter...)
- You should apply sunscreen as the last step in your skin-care regimen. Applying products, such as moisturizers or makeup over your sunscreen is going to dilute its effectiveness.
- Use sunscreen that is SPF 30 or greater and water-resistant with broad spectrum coverage. The number indicates that if you are using it correctly, including reapplying it every two hours, it will take 30 times longer for you to turn red.
- Sunscreen breaks down when it is exposed to sunlight, sweat or water. If you are spending more than two hours outdoors, you should be reapplying your sunscreen.
- Always make sure to check that your sunscreen hasn’t expired. Toss sunscreen if it’s over a year old, as your SPF starts to become less effective at blocking damaging UV rays. If your sunscreen doesn’t have a date, be sure to write the date of purchase on the bottle.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen on the tops of your feet, ears, eyelids, scalp and lips. We often forget these area’s and therefore they are prone to a higher risk.
Oh, one more thing…
During the springtime, we start to shed layers of clothing. This is a great time to do a self-skin check. If you notice any moles or dark spots that weren’t there previously or ones that have changed over the recent months, see your dermatologist immediately. The start of spring is a great way to remind yourself that it is time for a skin check.