Sunscreen is a must, not just in the summer, but all-year round. It is recommended to wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, applied not only to just our faces but our entire bodies – and don’t forget those heads! It’s also important to choose a sunscreen that is effective, but also has safe ingredients.
Sunscreen Do’s and Don’ts
- Do check the ingredients. Make sure your sunscreen has:
- Zinc
- Titanium dioxide
- Avobenzone
- Mexoryl FX
- Don’t use sunscreen with a vitamin A additive or retinyl palmitate.
- Do use sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Also make sure it is water-resistant.
- Do apply liberally to your skin, 15 minutes prior to going outside. Reapply every two hours, and more frequently if you are sweating or going in the water.
- Do apply enough to cover your entire face and body. Commonly missed spots include:
- Ears
- Nose
- Lips
- Back of neck
- Hands
- Tops of feet
- Hairline
- Scalp
- Don’t keep your sunscreen directly in the sun or in warm areas.
- Do use other forms of protection in addition to sunscreen including protective shirts, hats, etc.
- Do apply sunscreen every day, all-yearlong!
- Stay safe!