First, I really want to emphasize how important it is to use
a sunscreen all year round, not just in the summer or when you are in the sun. Why? Even when the sun is not shining, we are still bombarded every day by UV rays that can damage your skin. The UVB rays are responsible for those nasty sunburns, while the UVA rays are the ones that cause premature aging. These UVA rays are present every day whether the sun is out or not.
When it comes to shopping for the right sunscreen, these days
you’ve got to read the ingredients to be sure you’ll protected
from both UVA and UVB rays. Most protect you from UVB but not
UVA. Keep this in mind:
- Any ingredient that ends in “-cinnamate” or “-salicylate” will only protect you from UVB
- Avobenzone or Parsol 1789 blocks only UVA
- Oxybenzone, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide protect you from both
Before you stock up on sunscreen, make sure it will protect you
completely. Here are a few other tips:
- Always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside for the best protection.
- Always reapply after swimming, excessive perspiring, or toweling off.
- Use more sunscreen than you think you need – the only way to really protect your skin is to apply the sunscreen liberally over your whole body.
