As we continue to enjoy the beauty of summer by getting active outdoors, soaking up the sun, or even packing our bags and taking a trip to a tropical or getaway destination, it’s important to keep our exposure to the sun in mind. Although over the past decade or so, we’ve been presented with research about how sunscreen and sunglasses are essential to blocking
the sun’s UV rays, you might not know just how damaging too much sun exposure is to the skin.
The sun is an essential component for your skin in order to produce vitamin D, boost serotonin (for mood), and provide you with a healthy appearance and glowing skin. However, depending on the ultraviolet radiation index and your skin tone, taking extra measures to protect your skin from the sun is important for healthy aging and supple and moisturized skin. From putting on the ideal sunscreen for your skin to wearing the appropriate clothing when the sun’s rays are strong, there are numerous ways you can protect yourself.
Sunscreen
Despite the common consensus that sunscreen should be only used when going outdoors in the sun, it’s in fact recommended by dermatologists that people should wear sunscreen every day even in gloomy, overcast weather. This is because what damages your skin is the harmful UV rays which still exist during times where the sun isn’t out. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate your skin even on non-sunny days.
When choosing a sunscreen, ensure you choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, that is water-resistant, and protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are ones that prematurely age your skin, while UVB rays are those that induce sunburn.
15-30 minutes before going outside, use an ounce of sunscreen (the equivalent of one shot glass). Especially when at the beach or going swimming, ensure you reapply often, at least every two hours. Sunscreens can expire or lose their strength, so if you have a bottle you haven’t used that you’ve had for over three years, it’s time for a new one.
TIZO 2 Sunscreen Non-Tinted Primer
The TIZO 2 Sunscreen is a non-tinted matte primer and mineral sunscreen that coincides with the guidelines of an effective sunscreen. It can be used to replace a foundation primer and at the same time, offer great broad-spectrum sun protection that has no chemical sunscreen filter, fragrances, dyes, or preservatives and has antioxidants C & E. Additionally, it is perfect for post-procedure use when it comes to non-invasive treatments.
Clothing
In addition to a good sunscreen, you’ll want to consider what to wear when protecting your skin from the sun. Choosing long-sleeved shirts and long pants or darker-colored clothing with tightly woven fabrics will ensure your skin is less exposed, or even clothing with special sun-protective materials depending on where you go and how long you plan to spend in the sun. Accessories like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UV absorption can protect your eyes, ears, and face from the sun and act as a backup measure in case not enough sunscreen is applied.
Time
Educating yourself about the UV index can help you determine how much time in the sun is appropriate, as well as avoiding the sun between the hours of 10 pm and 4 pm where the sun’s rays are strongest.