Summertime is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also when you need to be extra careful about your skin. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage your skin, causing premature aging and even skin cancer. There are plenty of ways to keep your skin safe while enjoying the summer sun.
Here are six tips to help you protect your skin this summer:
Wear Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
With a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you can protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. The American Association of Dermatology recommends using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Anytime you go outside for more than 20 minutes, you must apply a generous amount of sunscreen (at least SPF 30).
Reapply Every Two Hours
No matter how waterproof or sweatproof your sunscreen claims, it’s always a good idea to reapply every two hours (or more if you’re sweating). Be wary of peak sun hours: The sun is the strongest between 10 AM-4 PM, so it’s best to avoid being outside during those times if possible. However, if you must be outside, make sure to take extra precautions like wearing a hat or using an umbrella.
Protect Your Lips
Don’t forget about your lips. Applying a lip balm or gloss with an SP F of at least 15 will help protect your lips from sun damage. Regardless of your product, you will need to reapply it every two hours, more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing
Protective clothing is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun. Be sure to look for clothing that’s been treated with an SPF fabric protector. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats provide excellent coverage.
Use Caution Near Water, Sand, and Snow
Water, sand, and snow reflect the sun’s rays and can increase your chance of sunburn. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Watches, rings, and other jewelry can reflect the sun’s rays and increase your chance of sunburn.
Check the UV Index
The UV Index is a daily forecast of the amount of ultraviolet radiation expected to reach the earth’s surface. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a UV Index rating for every city in the United States.
Let’s Help Keep Your Skin Healthy
A wide range of skin treatments is available at Dr. Leedy’s facility, along with breast, body, and face procedures. If you’d like to achieve your aesthetic goals and rejuvenate your appearance, let us help you develop a tailored skin treatment plan. You can get started on your personal transformation online or by calling 918-358-6447.