Sunscreen Tips
April 18, 2008
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Summer is right around the corner but now is the time to bring out that sunscreen. The Great Outdoors gave us the desire to get outside but don’t be foolish and go out without some degree of protection for our skin. We want the wonderful benefits of Vitamin D which is made in our bodies while being in the sun but we don’t want to get a sunburn. Sunburns hurt not only because they cause physical pain but they are actually damaging our skin and can lead to serious problems. When buying a sunscreen you will want to look for some active ingredients. Get a pen because you won’t remember these names at the store.
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
- Benzophenone-3
- Butyl Methoxydibensoylmethane
These ingredients protect you against the UVB rays of the sun but also against the UVA rays. The SPF label on sunscreen products only tell you about the UVB protection. The government has not yet set up a labeling system for UVA protection.
One last thought, the difference between SPF15 and SPF30 is only the length of time you can be outside until you need to apply more sunscreen. SPF30 does not mean it is stronger!
Here are several possible reasons why the rate of skin cancer is increasing so rapidly.
1. We have less ozone to protect us from sun exposure.
2. Young people are tanning more.
3. Tanning beds are being used more than ever, especially by the younger generation.
4. Sunscreens lacking full UVB and the important UVA protection.
5. Not using enough sunscreen, being too stingy when applying the sunscreen.
6. Not putting it on 20 minutes before going out into the sun.
7. Forgetting to reapply every 2 hours.
8. Not wearing protective clothing, e.g. wearing a hat to cover face, ears and neck.
We need to be outside but we need to be there using our God given sensibilities.
I market a product called Daytime Protective Emulsion made by Usana. It is a great moisturizer with all the active ingredients listed above to protect you in the sun.
