Summer is officially here which means it’s time to bust out that SPF sunscreen!
It’s July which means it’s that time of year when the most important acronym to have in your back pocket is SPF. SPF or sun protection factor is the level of defense your sunscreen has against UVB rays which are what cause sunburn.
Did you know that exposing yourself to the sun without using SPF in the long-term can lead to skin damage that causes wrinkles, sagging, sunspots, freckles, and enlarged pores? Save your future self from a serious anti-aging skin-care routine by applying the sunscreen now, before it’s too late.
Although using sunscreen will dramatically help your chances against the sun, it does not protect your skin from 100% of the UV rays. That being said, a high SPF sunscreen should be used in addition to monitoring your sun exposure. Add hats and sunglasses to your outfit and avoid hours of direct sunlight when scheduling your trip to the beach.
Want even more protection from the sun? Choose clothing with a high UPF which protect you from the ultraviolet rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It indicates what fraction of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can penetrate the fabric. A shirt with a UPF of 50, for example, allows just 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation to reach the skin.”
Obviously if you’re thinking about going out to the pool or playing some outdoor yard games with the family this weekend it’s imperative to lather up with your SPF fueled sunscreen. And don’t forget to re-apply every two hours!
If you need help finding a top dermatologist in your area who can provide you with specialized instructions on how to best care for your skin, please visit our site www.NCTopDocs.com
Sources: https://www.health.com/skin-cancer/what-does-spf-stand-for | https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/clothing
