Protect Your Skin with SPF
Posted on by Isabelle Brown
Now that we all have facemask tan lines to worry about, it is at the front of our personal care priorities to wear sunscreen on our faces and bodies every day.
While we are soaking up the sun every chance we get amidst COVID-19 closures, we are mindful of how to protect our skin from the hot summer sun.
What Should I Look for in Sunscreen?
- Broad-spectrum to protect against UVA and UVB rays
- SPF 30 or higher
- Water resistance to stand up to sweat
What is the Difference Between UVA and UVB?
UVA is known as Ultraviolet A. These wavelengths are present all year and in any weather. UVA penetrates deep into the skin and causes long-term skin damage, wrinkling, and aging.
UVB is Ultraviolet B. This is the wavelength that plays a major role in burning, tanning, accelerating skin aging, and the development of skin cancer.
Why SPF 30 or Higher?
Any sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. As you go higher than 30 SPF, the level of protection only increases very minimally. Unfortunately, no sunscreen can block 100% of harmful rays from the sun.
Be Kind to Your Skin!
If you bike, walk, take public transit, or drive solo or in a car/vanpool to work, remember to apply sunscreen before you head out for the day. You’d be surprised at the sun’s power. Even through the car windshield, UVA rays can penetrate the skin.
Beautiful, healthy skin loves vitamin D from the sun. Make sure you are always wearing sunscreen so that you can nourish your body and mind with fresh air and sunlight in the safest way possible!