The summer season is now officially in full swing! The sun is out and the crowds are flocking back outside for fun, sun-filled summer adventures like relaxing on the beach, picnics at the park, and boat days on the lake. Before you head outside, don’t forget to grab your sunblock! Regular application of sunscreen is absolutely imperative in order to keep your skin in tip-top shape.
Prevents Wrinkles
Photoaging is skin damage resulting from extended exposure to UV light from the sun. Ninety percent of noticeable changes to the skin such as wrinkles, fine lines, and a leathery appearance on the face and body are a result of photoaging. UV rays break down the collagen and elastin in your skin, causing premature skin aging. Luckily, it is totally preventable! All it takes is proper and regular use of sunscreen.
Reduces Risk of Skin Cancer
No one wants to hear the dreaded words from their doctor, “You have cancer.” Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and 9500 people are diagnosed with a form of skin cancer each day. There are plenty of ways to protect your skin, and one of the single most effective ways to prevent the development of skin cancer is through the use of sunscreen. Regularly applying sunblock is so simple yet has the potential to save your life.
Limits Sunburns
As tempting as it is to opt-out of the sunblock in hopes of achieving the perfect tan, nothing puts a damper on the memories of your beach day like painful sunburns and peeling skin for the next two weeks. Applying sunscreen every couple of hours can be inconvenient, but it’s definitely worth the effort to avoid serious burns and hoping that no one pats you on the back until the burn heals. Don’t be fooled by cloudy skies either! It’s just as possible to get sunburn on overcast days as it is on the sunniest of days, so don’t forget to lather up.
Stops Age Spots
Most people desire to have as even a skin tone as possible. Sun exposure is a major roadblock to achieving that goal. “Liver spots” or areas of skin discoloration are usually brown or tan and can appear all over the body, particularly in areas that see the sun regularly, such as your arms, face, and head. They often develop with age, but can be prevented through the regular use of sunscreen.
Tips for Choosing a Sunscreen
As much as we love the sun, it can do some damage. Sunscreen should be a part of your daily routine no matter your skin color, how easily you tan, and no matter the weather.
For full protection, you will want to pick a sunscreen that is at least a level at SPF 30 or higher. To help you remember to apply daily, you may want to choose a sunscreen that doubles as a primer.
Dr. Connie Heir’s is currently offering a 15% discount for the entire month of July on 3 different types of sunscreen–you don’t want to miss out on this deal! Buy your sunscreen now to keep your summer glow while staying healthy and protected from the sun.