I love the sunshine. I love being outside from the moment I wake up until bed, for at least 4 months out of the year (as I live where it is usually cold). However, here in Michigan we are now making our way towards summer and I just wanted to take a minute to talk about suncare. It is so important to protect yourself when you are enjoying the sunshine. Sunburns can be so much more than just painful. They can lead to skin aging, dark spots, and skin cancer. The beautiful thing is you can take steps to prevent this. Let’s talk about the basics.
Sunscreen.
Even though we know this one is so important, it is a tough one. You hear about it in the news. It’s all over your parenting group. What is the best option for sunscreen? The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher. One thing to look for would be a sunscreen that sits on top of your skin rather than being absorbed into it. A mineral type made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will deflect the UV rays.
Don’t forget to reapply after swimming, sweating or about every 2 hours of sun exposure. Also, a little sunscreen side note, use it on your face! Everyday. I apply my MaryKay moisturizer with 30 SPF every morning and I carry Neutrogena Age Shield Face 70 SPF with me to apply during the day when I’m out. It is the best way to help keep wrinkles at bay while still soaking up the sun.
Wear a hat.
It never hurts to be a little extra cautious. A wide brimmed hat will protect not only your face but also your ears and scalp. Those seem to be 2 places I forget to apply my sunscreen to on a regular basis so the big hat helps. It also will help keep the sun from fading your beautiful hair color. If you’re one who just doesn’t do the hat thing, ask your stylist about products made for hair with UV protection. They are a lot better for your scalp than traditional sunscreens. I love the Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray. It keeps your hair soft and shiny while protecting your hair and scalp.
Cover up.
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to just cover your skin. Pretty self explanatory, but the CDC mentions it on their website so I figured I should too. Tight woven fabrics are best. Currently, there are tons of options out there for clothing and even swimming suits with UV protection built right into the fabric — a great option especially for those kiddos who like to fight the sun lotion. Sunglasses are a great thing too to protect your eyes from damaging rays.
After sun care.
This is one we usually forget about unless we get burned. For those times, aloe vera is such a wonderful thing. I keep mine in the fridge for that extra cooling effect. But even if you don’t get that pink glow, don’t forget to moisturize and drink water. It’s so easy to get dehydrated out in the sun and your skin is no different. Give it some love with your favorite moisturizer.
Now that we have had a quick reminder, it’s time to grab your sunscreen and head out to your favorite place. Go for a swim, enjoy a hike with a friend, or just a nap on the beach. Be happy, be safe and live your best beautiful life!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position of All Unrivaled. Any content provided by our contributors/bloggers/authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything. This article is for informational purposes only. Consult a physician before use. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition to determine whether to perform, use or adapt any information or content on this website. Any beauty product may result in injury or allergic reaction. By voluntarily using any product displayed or discussed on this website, you assume the risk and any resulting injury. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this article, the author and All Unrivaled cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.