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Why Wear Sunscreen?I am often asked: "Why wear sunscreen... does it really work?" The simple answer is yes, sunscreen is effective. Yet it is not foolproof.
Several studies by health leaders in the United States lend credence to the importance of sunscreen. The following organizations declare sunscreen a necessary tool in the prevention of skin cancer:
The Mayo clinic reports that fully one-half of all new cancers are skin cancer. Increasing at the rate of 6% per year, one million new cases occur annually! Add to these alarming statistics the fact that the disease occurs in people at a much younger age than ever before.
Would you like to ward off "premature aging" ... AKA wrinkles? Experts claim that 90% of skin changes are due to sun damage, not old age. Then there are those nasty, rough bumps known as "solar keratosis". Not attractive! Sunscreen goes a long way in preventing these maladies. Need another reason? Consider your health ...
Some claim a tan is "healthy". Why wear sunscreen if this is true? Actually, there is no safe level of tanning. A small dose of unprotected sunshine, 10 minutes a few days a week, is a good source of vitamin D. Most of us get this in our daily routine, known as "incidental" sun exposure. A suntan, however, signifies damaged skin.Excessive sun exposure also suppresses your immune system. This interferes with your body's natural ability to ward off infection and disease, including cancer.
Everyone! True, some individuals are more susceptible to skin cancer. Those with ...
The downside of using sunscreen is the belief that you can spend extra time in the sun as long as you slather it on. Sunscreen does not provide 100% protection, however. Use sunscreen as a tool that allows you to spend time outside, enjoying life. Just don't spend too much time out there! Sunscreen is only one piece of the pie. For the best plan of action, incorporate the following guidelines: Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Hang out in the shade. Sip a cool one under an umbrella, canopy, or tree. Be aware, however, shade does not provide complete protection. Wear clothing that shields. A hat with a wide brim guards your face, ears, neck and eyes. Long sleeved shirts and pants protect the rest of you. Choose a tight weave and a loose fitting style. Don't forget your shades!. Wear sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection. Bottom line ...
Protection from the sun is the single most effective means to maintaining young looking and healthy skin. Baz Luhrmann's infamous lyrics were right ... wear your sunscreen! Read: What is the Best Sunscreen? Want more skin care tips?
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