More than ever before, the society that loves to bronze is staying away from the sun. We've finally realized that, although looking beachy keen does look undeniably hot, sexy skin isn't worth the future wrinkles and leathery alligator skin - not to mention the possible threat of skin cancer.
And how are we covering up? With classy brimmed hats, sassy sarongs, slinky shawls and our trusty bottle of sunscreen. We lather on that creamy awkwardness, not quite sure how it works, how long it lasts, when to reapply, or if it's even really stopping the sun's harmful rays.
Sunscreen 101
One thing is for sure: the right sunscreen stops you from sporting the lobster look that has never been in style. The creamy layer puts up a shield that prevents your delicate skin from getting fried, but will an hourly dose of sunscreen save you from various forms of skin cancer, help you avoid unnecessary future wrinkles and save you from that crepey cleavage we've all grown to love in our Great Aunt Irene?
According to current debates bubbling away in the medical world, the answer to that query isn't entirely clear.
Ultraviolet Rays: UVA & UVB
Experts have long argued that of the ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun, UVB is responsible for most sunlight-caused skin damage, such as sunburns. But over the past half decade, UVA rays, which may also take their toll on our skin, breaking down the support structure, leading to premature aging and playing a role in the development of skin cancers, have been drawing concern. Although most sunscreens filter out UVB rays, fewer put up a shield against UVA. "Broad Spectrum" sunscreens, or those with an SPF 15 or higher, however, help protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. Plus, products suped-up with the extra shiny shield of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide will also give you dual-ray protection.
Did you know: The longer wavelengths of UVB and UVA rays pass through the atmosphere, even on a cloudy day - you can still get a sunburn on the cloudiest, haziest of days so always sport the right skin-safe solution.
But despite such products, your skin-safe solution can't just involve sunscreen. You should cover up as your primary mode of sun protection (and hey, hats, sunglasses and cover-ups are sexy in that vintage, high-glam fashionista kind of way) and slather an effective sunscreen on the rest of your exposed skin. Plus, tans are so last decade.
Solar Protection Factor (SPF)
You're right in assuming the higher the SPF number on your bottle of sunscreen, the more protection against the sun you are receiving. You're wrong, however, in thinking that an SPF 40 is a ticket to a full day out in the blazing sun. To be safe, you should apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 half an hour before you hit the sand, pool side, field or park and reapply every two hours. Also re-lather after a douse in the ocean or pool, towel-drying or sweating, even if your sunscreen claims it's water resistant - you may not be receiving your product's full level of protection, so why not reload?
Sunscreen Formulations
Like all skin care products, we recommend you chose sunscreens that are specific to the part of the body you are protecting. This means finding an ophthalmologist tested product for the face that is gentle enough to wear every day.
Encapsulated SPFs that keep your delicate visage irritation-free are a plus, as is the chemical 'Mexoryl,' well-known to protect skin from wrinkle-causing UVA rays and found proudly in La Roche-Posay's Anthelios XL Lait SPF 60 for face and body. And if you'd like your sunscreen to perform double (or even triple) duty, opt for a moisturizer with a sufficient and effective SPF with or without a tint.
For the body, sunscreens come in either lotions, gels or sprays. The difference between each delivery system really falls down to preference, but each method does have its benefits and, of course, disadvantages. If you have a drier, thirstier skin, steer clear of gels and lap up the emollient qualities of a luxurious lotion. Your desert-dry skin will love the creamy softness of a lavish lotion and you'll be more than excited to rub that sunscreen all over.
More oily skin types will find satisfaction in a light, gel-formula sunscreen, especially ones that dry up as you rub them in. Such alcohol-based products, however, can be a wee bit stingy on nicks and cuts, so avoid evaporating gels on children's skin or your own freshly-razed stems. A spray-on sunscreen is perfect for those hard-to-reach places, especially if the beachy studs are nowhere in sight, and makes application that little bit quicker and cleaner. Don't forget to rub the product into your skin evenly, though, or you'll end up with a red speckled mess that'll be as uncomfortable as it is unsightly.
Additional Sun Protection
If you've got wee ones around, bite the bullet and purchase a sunscreen specifically for their delicate, sensitive skin. You may want to share your own pricey product, but your little guys and gals deserve the most hypoallergenic, sensitive forms of sun protection. And, of course, cover up your tot with a brimmed hat and a shoulder-hiding tee, keeping your little love safe in the sun.
Finally, don't forget about your eyes - slip on a set of shades that provide at least 98 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
