90% of skin aging is caused by the sun. This statistic from the Skin Cancer Foundation is eye-opening!
At our San Jose MedSpa, we always stress the importance of wearing sunscreen year round, but there is no better time to repeat this message than in summer. Most people we know are very compliant with applying sunscreen daily – but the surprising message that we are now seeing is that we may be under-applying sunscreen.
Here are tips on how to maximize your sun protection:
MEASURE OUT YOUR SUNSCREEN
It is often said that the amount of sunscreen needed to adequately cover your body is equivalent to a shot glass full. That is a lot of sunscreen! While most of us are not going to measure it out, we recommend using a hearty handful for your lower half, another handful for your upper half and about a quarter-sized blob for your face, neck and ears (don’t forget those ears!). For those who favor the aerosol sunscreen sprays, it is recommended that you spray your entire body – twice. The first application is usually thin and areas may have been missed.
REAPPLY YOUR SUNSCREEN
Whether you have on SPF 15 or 55, you must re-apply, even if it is “water-resistant”. Sunscreen begins to degrade about 2 hours after application, especially if you are in the water or sweating excessively. If you are in the office, at the park, or out running errands, re-application is still recommended.
LOOK FOR BROAD SPECTRUM
If your sunscreen or tinted moisturizer does not say “Broad Spectrum” than you are probably not getting complete coverage from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeply to accelerate skin aging and can cause cancer. UVB rays cause burns and can lead to skin cancer as well.
BLU COCOON’S FACIAL SUNSCREEN PRODUCT PICK:
EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
We are now carrying EltaMD sun protection products based on their reputation and quality. EltaMD has developed wound healing, sunscreen, and skin care products that are used and recommended by physicians. Backed by research and knowledge, EltaMD products help restore, protect, and maintain healthy skin.
We love EltaMD’s UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 (tinted). This lightweight formula has 9% transparent zinc oxide (no more white streaks!) and hyaluronic acid to give you superior UV protection along with serious hydration. Wear the tinted sunscreen alone – especially on hot summer days – or under makeup. Also available in a non-tinted formula.
We also have other great options for sun protection – ask us for a recommendation next time you are in!