It’s a scorching July afternoon, and you’re at the Jersey Shore, toes buried in warm sand, waves crashing in the distance. The sun beats down relentlessly, making everyone around you look like they’re sizzling bacon reminding you to apply your sunscreen before you get too comfortable.
You reach for the sunscreen, realizing you forgot the bottle at home. No worries, you think, I’ll just grab any old bottle from the bag.
But wait! Before you do that, let’s talk sunscreen smarts. July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to protect your skin from those harmful rays. Your skin—your body’s largest organ—often gets overlooked in your daily care routines. Not today, my friend! Today, we’re going to make sure your skin is as safe as it is radiant.
Our friends at Virtua Health put together this guide with tips on how to choose and use sunscreen effectively. Because your skin deserves the best protection, especially in our sunny South Jersey summers. Let’s dive in and learn how to keep your glow without the burn.
Choosing The Right Sunscreen
When it comes to sunscreen, you want one that's broad-spectrum—meaning it protects against both UVA rays (the ones that age you faster than a time machine) and UVB rays (the ones that can turn your skin into a lobster). Both types can also increase your risk of skin cancer, so yeah, we definitely want to block those.
Look for an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. That'll block about 97% of those UVB rays. Higher SPFs block a bit more, but even Superman couldn't block them all, so reapplying is key.
If you're planning to splash around or sweat like you just ran a marathon, grab a water-resistant sunscreen. They're not waterproof, but they'll stick around for about 40 to 80 minutes. So, keep that skin safe and slather on some more!
Ingredients to Avoid
When you're hunting for sunscreen, watch out for certain ingredients that could do more harm than good. Skip the ones with oxybenzone and octinoxate—they've been caught causing trouble in marine ecosystems. We're all about saving the turtles, right?
Instead, go for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are the heavyweights that sit on top of your skin and bounce those UV rays right off without getting all up in your business. Plus, they're like your skin's BFFs—they've got your back and keep things chill.
Applying Sunscreen Effectively
Let’s talk sunscreen application—because getting it right is key to keeping your skin protected. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen to get the full SPF benefit. Aim for about an ounce (that's roughly a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Don’t be shy with it!
Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside. Think of it like giving your skin a little head start against the sun. It’s the best way to make sure you’re fully protected.
And don’t forget to reapply that sunscreen at least every two hours. If you’re swimming or sweating, you might need to do it even more often. Even those "water-resistant" sunscreens need a little love after a dip in the pool or a game of beach volleyball. Keep that sunscreen handy and keep your skin safe!
Ongoing Skin Care
As you enjoy the summer sun, remember your skin’s health is paramount. By being smart about your sunscreen choices and usage, you can greatly lower your risk of skin damage and cancer. Stay safe in the sun and enjoy your time outdoors responsibly!
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