Protect Your Beautiful Skin from the Sun

What’s the point of getting skin corrections and rejuvenation treatments if you’re just going to damage your beautiful skin in the hot Daytona sun? Not only do the sun’s ultraviolet rays burn your skin and cause wrinkles, but they also create dryness. So, taking solar precaution is paramount, especially in a sunny state like Florida. The following tips will help mitigate sun damage and keep your skin supple and soft.

Sunscreen

It seems pretty commonsensical, but sunblock is one of the best ways to thwart those intense solar rays. Whether you’re using a lotion or a spray, most sunscreens require at least 15 minutes to soak into your skin. It should also be noted that water and sweat can diminish the effectiveness of sunscreen, so apply every few hours (especially if you are sweating heavily or are frequently in and out of the water). You should also insure maximum coverage. To get every inch of skin might require a partner, but it’s a good excuse to ask that attractive lifeguard for a little help. Additionally, people often forget the ears, the lips, and the tops of the feet; don’t be one of those people.

Don’t be Fooled by the SPF

Although you might feel protected by your base tan and a thick coat of SPF 15, think again. While SPF 15 blocks of UVB rays, it is a completely different story when it comes to UVA rays. UVB rays are the ones that burn, but UVA rays are the ones that are cause deeper skin damage. Further, no SPF is effective, and the marginal returns are diminishing ( while SPF 30 blocks of UVB rays, SPF 45 only blocks more). For the best protection, you need a broad spectrum sunscreen. They are usually labeled “broad protection” and contain such things as PABA derivatives, salicylates, and/or cinnamates for UVB protection and titanium dioxide or zinc oxide for UVA protection.

Timing and Shade

Timing is crucial if you want to protect your delicate skin. If you can help it, try to avoid the “danger zone” (between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.). The sun during this time is especially hot and can cook you like a lobster before you even know it. If you do find yourself outside during the danger zone, make sure to find a shady spot or cover up with a hat and/or shirt. It’s also important to beware of cloud coverage. Contrary to popular belief, the sun’s UV rays can penetrate even the thickest of clouds. So even if you’re shaded by the clouds, your skin is still susceptible.

Staying active and enjoying the great outdoors is important. But you don’t have to sacrifice your skin to do the things you love.