Sometimes the sun does more harm than good. It’s impossible to avoid sunlight, so how can you successfully protect your skin from damage? Below we’ve listed some of the easiest ways to protect your skin from harmful sunlight.
1. Stay covered.
One of the simplest ways to protect your skin from sun damage is to cover up! Damaging sun exposure peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For most people, these are their most active hours, so staying indoors isn’t really an option. If you’re going to be outdoors around this time, be sure to cover up and wear sunscreen. Dark clothes, made from tightly woven materials absorb harmful ultraviolet light better than most cotton fabrics in lighter shades.
2. Apply sunscreen early and often.
Before you head out the door, spread on the sunscreen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend individuals wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or more. As you apply, make sure you spread it on thick enough. Lathering on a thin coating reduces the effectiveness of the product by about 50 percent. Be sure to grab waterproof sunscreen if you’re going to be swimming that day.
3. Don't miss a spot!
Lots of people neglect some of the body’s most sensitive spots. The most commonly missed places include ears, the “v” of the chest, the nose, the hands and the hairline. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, about 80 percent of skin cancers occur on the head and hands. For full protection, professionals recommend you wear a hat made of tightly woven fabrics and apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 on exposed areas.
4. Don't tan - seriously!
Everyone’s skin is unique. There are chemical peels safe to use on every skin type, but now doctors can create a customized treatment, designed to address your personal needs. These formulas can be used to boost collagen synthesis, target dry skin, and focus on your problem areas. Your doctor can add a pinch of the vitamins and nutrients they think will help your skin.
Looking for a fresh start? Contact The Medical Spa of Baton Rouge today to book an appointment and schedule a chemical peel consultation.
