Keeping Your Skin Safe: Understanding UV Rays and Protection

As the summer sun starts to bear down on us and more events start happening outdoors, sun protection is a must. While slapping on a little bit of sunscreen may seem to do the trick, the reality is that your skin needs more than a lightweight sun block to keep it protected. Here are some things to learn about protecting your skin against the UV rays and sun.

UV rays power

A big reason to explore better reasons for sun protection is because of how intense UV rays can be. It’s important to understand UV levels on a daily basis as this can help you to know when it may be a good day to be outside and when it could be a good time to stay inside. With many weather apps offering this type of information, you can do your best to avoid outdoor activities on days where the rays may be working their damage. This could be wrinkles, sunspots, and long-term damage could even result in skin cancer.

When to wear sunscreen

Many people will pull out the sunscreen on days where the sun is shining brightly. But did you know that even on cloudy days, you can still get sun exposure and sunburn? The reality is that you should use sunscreen every single day.

Sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage and also keeps it looking youthful and bright. Some people with the best skin in their later years actually use sunscreen on a regular basis. Whether you need to use pregnancy safe sunscreen or zinc sunscreen is helpful for your melasma, you want to be using sunscreen every day that you step foot outside.  Additionally, even if you just plan to be in the car all day, be aware that the sun can still “get you” through the windows.

Frequent application

While it may be helpful to apply your sunscreen under your makeup and before you leave the house, if you plan to be outside for hours, you want to invest in a smaller sunscreen design that is easy to carry with you. Reapplication allows you to confidently be outside in the sun, knowing that you’re taking care of your skin, no matter what. Every couple of hours for long hours in the sun is a good idea if you want to avoid sunspots or damage.

Extra protection

While sunscreen is important for your skin’s safety, taking your protection a step further can ensure you keep flawless looking skin for years to come. Whether that’s using an umbrella when taking walks in the sun or it’s using a sun hat or cap when you know that you’ll be outside for many hours, it’s paramount that you take extra care with your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.

While a lot of people pay attention to their face, they ignore the rest of their bodies. The thing is that age can show up in more places than your face. From wrinkles on the neck to the chest to sunspots sprinkling your arms, it’s wise to use sun protective gear when playing sports or spending many hours outside.

Talk to your dermatologist

We all have different skin textures and skincare needs. Instead of just buying any type of sunscreen that you come across, talk to a dermatologist. They can provide advice that is tailored to your specific needs and skin texture. You may be using sunscreen that offers great sun protection, but it may also be causing you to break out in acne because of your skin’s specific sensitivity. Talk to your doctor about the best options for your needs.

In Conclusion

If you want to be confident that you’re taking the best care of your skin possible, consider these tips above. From protective sun gear to sunscreen, taking care of your skin and protecting it from the sun is one of the best things that you can do for your appearance and your health.