Sunscreen is an essential component of a healthy skin routine. Daily, year-round application works to prevent premature skin aging and risks of skin cancer. Effective sunscreens should be labeled broad-spectrum, have a sun protection factor (SPF) rating of at least 50, and be water-resistant. Here are 8 tips to up your sunscreen game . . .
#1 When to Apply
For your sunscreen to work it needs to bind to the outer layer of your skin. For maximum protection apply to cool, dry skin in the morning 15-30 minutes before going outdoors. When you apply sunscreen to hot, wet skin it will dramatically diminish the effectiveness.
#2 How Much to Apply
The recommended amount of sunscreen for the face and body is one full ounce, or a shot glass size amount, to all exposed areas of the body. Don’t miss applying to the entire neck area as well as ears and chest. These areas are often forgotten and are prime areas for skin cancer and skin aging.
#3 Always Reapply Sunscreen
Adding a second layer after the initial 15-30 minutes is ideal, but reapplication should happen at least every two hours. Be sure to apply more frequently when sweating or after swimming and toweling off. Make sure your skin has cooled down and is dry before reapplication.
#4 Wear Protective Clothing
Wear UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses. Cover exposed areas when you are outside for a long period of time. One of my favorite UPF lines is made by Athleta.
#5 Understand the Label
According to the FDA, sunscreens are considered over-the-counter drugs. Because of this, sunscreen labels can only legally make 3 specific claims:
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
- Broad-Spectrum (UVA and UVB Protection)
- Water Resistant
Because the FDA requirements limit what can be said about a product, you really need to understand ingredients. While these 3 things are especially important, you also want a sunscreen that is anti-inflammatory. Finding anti-inflammatory formulas, such as Epionce Ultra Shield SPF 50 and Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 will help ward off signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. These products are formulated with anti-inflammatory botanical ingredients to calm inflammation and redness triggered by UV rays and heat. Also, look for products that have the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. This means the clinical results were approved by an independent committee of photobiologists.
#6 Healthy Skin Barrier
How well your sunscreen works is dependent on how well it can bind to your skin. Sunscreen must sit on the surface of your skin to protect it. Therefore, a key component of any sunscreen working well is to have a healthy skin barrier. Using products such as Epionce Renewal lotions will help ensure a healthy skin barrier.
#7 Protect Your Sunscreen from the Sun
Bet you didn’t know that your sunscreen needs protection too! The FDA recommends that sunscreen containers should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Wrap your containers in towels, store them in the shade or your cooler while outside in the heat for long periods of time.
#8 Eat Your Protection
There are foods that can help protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays. During the summer months help support your skin function and boost your SPF with your diet. Some favorite foods are:
- Citrus Fruits: high content of limonene
- Green Tea: full of antioxidants called EGCGs.
- Carrots: carotenoids
- Strawberries: high vitamin c and tannins
- Pomegranates: ellagic acid and packed full of antioxidants
- Tomatoes: lycopene
- Red Peppers: lycopene and beta-carotene
- Red Grapes: resveratrol
- Flaxseed: omega-3 fatty acids
- Spinach: antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin
- Salmon: omega-3 fatty acids
- Sunflower seeds: vitamin e
- Walnuts: omega-3 fatty acids
We love sharing sunscreen tips at Lifted. To learn more about selecting the sunscreen that is best for your skin, read 4 Things to Look for When Selecting Your Sunscreen. To learn more about food that nourishes your skin from the inside out, follow us at our Eating Beautiful Facebook group.
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