Why is Sunscreen Important?
It’s no secret that sunburn and skin cancer are huge risks you can face from too much time spent in the sun. Yet, we find ourselves continuing to preach the importance of sunscreen to all of our clients. Sunscreen isn’t just for a summer day by the pool or a vacation at the beach - SPF should be a part of your daily skincare routine.
Why Should You Use SPF Every Day?
Prevent Skin Cancer
Did you know skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States? Yep! 1 in 5 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. The good news? Skin cancer is easy to prevent when you protect your skin with a high quality SPF.
Protect Your Skin From UV Rays
The depletion of our ozone layer has put us at an increased risk of sun damage from harmful UV rays. Applying SPF can help block these UV rays, and reduce your risk of sunburn.
Prevent Premature Aging
Sun damage contributes to skin discoloration, deep lines and wrinkles, sagging of the skin, and more. Ironically, some of the most sought after skincare services are for anti-aging and sun damage. If you’re going to spend money on anti-aging skincare, you should probably make a point to apply sunscreen every time you leave the house.
Studies have shown that those 55 & under who regularly apply sunscreen have 24% less chance of developing these signs of aging. Less sun damage = less money spent on skincare!
Maintain An Even Skin Tone
I don’t care who you are - we all want an even complexion. Applying sunscreen will help prevent discoloration and dark spots from sun damage.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen?
How much sunscreen is too much sunscreen? The limit does not exist ;)
All joking aside, sunscreen should be applied year round, no matter where you are in the world. Whether it’s sunny and 75 at the beach or overcast in the mountains, you should always be packing your SPF!
Did You Know:
Up to 80% of the sun’s rays can pass through cloudsSnow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays
The higher elevation you’re at, the greater the UV exposure
You can get sunburned quickly while swimming, as the reflection from the water makes the sun’s rays stronger
You should be reapplying your sunscreen every two hours when outside
The sun’s rays are the most intense between the hours of 10AM and 2PM
Sunscreen Recommendations
The FDA recommends applying a broad spectrum SPF with values of 15 or higher. Broad spectrum sunscreen provides protection against both UVB (the rays that cause sunburn) and UVA (the rays that cause tanning and premature aging). Make sure to read the label before purchasing as you want to make sure your sunscreen provides both forms of protection.
Looking for sun protection you can trust? You know we can never resist recommending our skincare products. The following products are all broad spectrum sunscreens:
For everyday use, try Rhonda Allison Daytime Defense
To protect your hands from the sun, HandDrink SPF by Jane Iredale
For an easy reapplication throughout the day, we recommend Powder-Me SPF
