First, check your sunblock/ sunscreens. Make sure that they haven’t expired. Most products will have a date stamped into them.
Second, make sure that they have at least a SPF 30 and say broad spectrum coverage. In dermatology, we prefer sun-protective creams that have zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these are sun blockers. These products can be a little more expensive but are better at protecting the skin. At Summit, we have several to choose from that include some tinted products that wear like a BB cream. If you would like some over the counter recommendations, just ask your provider.
When applying these protective products remember to do so at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply every 80 minutes or after excessive sweating or swimming. A full body application is the equivalent to a shot glass. One tube of sunscreen on average should last a family of four one or two trips to the beach.
In addition to sunblock consider if you are spending time outdoors investing in sun protective clothing. Look for clothing with UPF on the label. You can find this fabric in bathing suits, rash guards, fishing shirts, golf shirts, shorts and hats. A hat with a wide brim is best to protect the back of your neck and ears. UPF fabric is also used in some sun umbrellas for the beach. Some of the companies that make these items are Coolibar, LL Bean, Columbia, Salt life, Tommy Bahama, Circo Target brand for kids. To care for these garments air dry and the heat from the dryer can break down the fabric.
We at Summit hope you all enjoy your spring adventures and are happy to answer any sun protective questions you might have.
See you around the office,
Margene
The recent warm weather has been a nice awakening from the start of the cold icy winter. We are lucky to live in a naturally beautiful area with unlimited out door activities. As we are shedding more of our clothing layers and spending more time out in the sun, it is a good time to look at your sun protective wardrobe and skin care.
First, check your sunblock/ sunscreens. Make sure that they haven’t expired. Most products will have a date stamped into them.
Second, make sure that they have at least a SPF 30 and say broad spectrum coverage. In dermatology, we prefer sun-protective creams that have zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these are sun blockers. These products can be a little more expensive but are better at protecting the skin. At Summit, we have several to choose from that include some tinted products that wear like a BB cream. If you would like some over the counter recommendations, just ask your provider.
When applying these protective products remember to do so at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and to reapply every 80 minutes or after excessive sweating or swimming. A full body application is the equivalent to a shot glass. One tube of sunscreen on average should last a family of four one or two trips to the beach.
In addition to sunblock consider if you are spending time outdoors investing in sun protective clothing. Look for clothing with UPF on the label. You can find this fabric in bathing suits, rash guards, fishing shirts, golf shirts, shorts and hats. A hat with a wide brim is best to protect the back of your neck and ears. UPF fabric is also used in some sun umbrellas for the beach. Some of the companies that make these items are Coolibar, LL Bean, Columbia, Salt life, Tommy Bahama, Circo Target brand for kids. To care for these garments air dry and the heat from the dryer can break down the fabric.
We at Summit hope you all enjoy your spring adventures and are happy to answer any sun protective questions you might have.
See you around the office,
Margene
Love the skin you're in! Schedule your skin checkup now!
Make sure you don’t have any spots, moles, or rough patches of skin that need attention before spring and summer gets here!