It’s Time to Get Your Skin Ready for Summer
With the long, hot days of summer less than three months away, we are faced with a whole new set of challenges for keeping our skin healthy, vibrant, and beautiful. Prolonged sun exposure is – unsurprisingly – the major contributor to summer skin woes, as its influence on our skin is strongest throughout the months of June, July, and August. However, our relationship with the sun isn’t as simple as many might think, and by neglecting to take the proper precautions against harmful UV radiation, people of all ages, skin types, and backgrounds greatly increase their risks for cancer, premature aging, and various skin ailments.
Are You Using the Right Sunscreen?
The amount of sunscreen available to us is remarkable. Seemingly endless options for brands, strengths, colors, and scents are advertised to us on a near constant basis, especially now, as more and more people are spending time outside. The problem is that not all sunscreens are equal and choosing the wrong one can have untold consequences on your skin.
Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher are essential for thorough sun protection, as sun rays responsible for burning and damaging the skin are largely blocked at this level. It is also important to select sunscreens with the right active ingredients. Fragrances, additives, and preservatives are not only inessential for sun protection, but also can cause the skin to become irritated and more susceptible to issues such as acne and heat rash.
At Dermatology Consultants, we offer a number of leading sunscreens, including Elta MD. These sunscreens, whether physical (containing natural sun blockers such as titanium dioxide and iron oxide) or chemical-based, are formulated to be used in conjunction with other skin care products and makeups. And they are as important to use now in the early weeks of spring as they are when summer is at its blazing peak.
Sunscreen is for Everybody
It is a common misconception that people with darker skin tones or those who refrain from excess sun exposure are not in need of a daily sunscreen. Although lighter skin types are more susceptible to sunburn, there are no skin types that are safe from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Furthermore, UV rays are much more powerful than many people realize and can penetrate clothing, window glass, and even thick cloud cover. It is important that everyone apply daily sunscreen, no matter the circumstances.
What’s more, we sometimes get so caught up in protecting our skin from sun damage that we neglect to wear proper eye and lip protection. Investing in sunglasses with proper UV-blocking technology and applying daily lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher go a long way in safeguarding our bodies from UV radiation.
Though sunscreen is the most effective method for protecting our skin from sun damage, it is important to speak with your skin care professional about other products and treatments to treat other common skin conditions, such as heat rash, acne, and yeast and fungal infections brought on by excessive sweating.
If you are confused about the products that are best for you, then contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation.