NOTE: Please consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice. Information shared here is for informational purposes only.
We hear so much about using sunscreen that it's easy to think that's all we have to do to be safe. NOT TRUE! Sunscreen alone is not enough!
Read on to learn some tips you may not have considered – and some you may be wondering about.
CLOTHING
You may or may not have heard of UPF clothing. It's worth learning about this because it could save your life. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a legit thing and is recognized by SkinCancer.org. With UPF-protected clothes. The weave is different than regular clothes, and often times it is made from a special fabric to help form a barrier against the sun's rays.
UV light can penetrate through the micro holes in the weaves of regular clothes or can even travel directly through a light-colored shirt. Lots of brands offer clothing with UPF protection built into them. They are lightweight and breathable synthetic fabrics making it comfortable to wear even on the hottest of days.
So, no excuses! When you get out of the water, COVER UP! Shirts, hats, shorts, pants, and bathing suit wraps provide protection from UV rays – and unlike sunscreen, you don't have to reapply.
PLANNING
If at all possible, plan around when the sun is at its radiation peak, which is at Noon. Go outdoors in the early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM), when the sun isn't as strong. Be mindful and plan ahead so you can choose a great spot in the shade! Picnic under a tree, read beneath an umbrella, or take a canopy to the beach.
SUNGLASSES
Sunglasses aren't just a fashion statement. Buy shades that are labeled to protect your eyes from UV radiation. UV radiation can cause cataracts. Look for a pair of sunglasses specifically designed for UV eye protection and rated UV400 or higher. That means they'll block 99.9% of UV rays. Lenses should also be polarized to help neutralize harmful glare.
Oh, and the spiffy dude wearing sunglasses in the Winter is onto something. He's smart! Sunglasses are not just for summer. The winter sun is just as damaging to our eyes.
SUNSCREEN
Important to note that just because you're using an SPF 50 doesn't mean you can stay in the sun longer. Even if you don't burn, your skin can sustain sun damage. And, don't be fooled by cloud cover. You are still getting sun rays when the sun is behind the clouds. Wear protection, even on cloudy days, if you're going to be outside for extended periods of time.
Avoid sunscreen with vitamin A. Eating vitamin A-laden vegetables is good for you, but spreading vitamin A on your skin is not. Reports show that tumors and lesions develop sooner on skin coated with creams laced with vitamin A, also called retinyl palmitate or retinol. Avoid any skin or lip product whose label includes retinyl palmitate, retinol, or vitamin A. Vitamin A-based products must be used at night ONLY and washed off in the morning.
Do not buy products containing oxybenzone, a synthetic estrogen that penetrates the skin and is known to disrupt the hormone system. Look for products with zinc oxide, 3 percent avobenzone, or Mexoryl SX. It should provide broad-spectrum, long-lasting protection with ingredients that pose fewer health concerns when absorbed by the body. Check with your healthcare practitioner if you have allergies, sensitive skin, etc. Here are some helpful links: Best Organic Sunscreens, Safest Sunscreens, and don't forget your Sculplla H2 Sun Cushion SPF 50 for the face.
Remember, sprays cloud the air with tiny particles that may not be safe to breathe. Lotions/creams are always a safer option.
Reapply often. Sunscreen chemicals sometimes degrade in the sun, wash off or rub off on towels and clothing.
So have fun in the sun with wise planning while wearing sunscreen, sunglasses on, your favorite hat on your head, and some UPF clothing that will protect you all day long!
Products you will love:
SPF 50 Protect and Rejuvenate Skin with Sculplla H2 Sun Cushion
Heal Sun Damage with NeoGenesis Recovery
Skin Barrier Repair for Stronger Skin with NeoGenesis Barrier Renewal Cream
Want to get support with your skincare journey? Join us at the Christine Byer Beauty Club. We offer a 14-Day FREE Preview with full access to everything in the Club. Ask Christine questions and have access to savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation. If you don’t find value in your membership, cancel within the 14 days at no charge.