Are you heading out for a sun or ski March Break holiday? Don't forget your sun protection and remember that:
1. All sunscreens protect from UVB rays however only broad-spectrum sunscreens protect from both UVB + UVA rays. UVB rays affect the top layers of the skin and are responsible for Burning. UVA rays affect the lower layers of the skin and are responsible for Aging.
2. Applying a higher SPF does not offer you extended protection in the sun. Sunscreens with high SPF give people a false sense of security, which leads to inadequate use and increased exposure.
SPF 15 = 92% protection from damaging UV rays
SPF 30 = 97% protection from damaging UV rays
SPF 40 = 97.5% protection from damaging UV rays
3. RE-APPLICATION of sunscreen every 2 hours is key to effective sun protection. After 2 hours, your sun protection is 0%.
4. Chemicals in commercial sunscreens produce free radicals which cause aging and inflammation in the body. Titanium oxide or zinc oxide deflect the sun's rays and are a natural alternative to sunscreen chemicals. Avoid avobenzone or oxybenzone.
5. Plant oils offer varying degrees of ultraviolet protection, are rich in antioxidants to prevent free radical damage, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial to support the skin. Seek out products containing jojoba, seabuckthorn, red raspberry seed and cranberry seed oils.
6. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes PRIOR to going outdoors. As a rule of thumb, apply one ounce (a handful) to cover the entire body. Sunscreen becomes less effective as it gets older so replace your sunscreen every year and keep it out of the sun as heat can also make it less effective.
Happy Holidays!