Protect Your Skin from the Outside In

June 27, 2008

Posted by Maggie Spilner

Dermatologists agree that protecting your skin from sunlight is the first line of defense against aging skin and skin cancers, so be smart about working and playing in the sun. Follow these skin-saving guidelines this summer:

1. Make sure your sunscreen includes UVA protective ingredients. According to cosmetic expert Paula Begoun, author of Don’t Go to the Cosmetic Counter Without Me (Beginning Press 2007, 7th Edition.), you should look for a sunscreen that contains one or more of the following UVA protective substances: avobenzone, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Mexory SX or Tinsorb.

2. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. This is the recommendation of the Environmental Protection Agency. Keep in mind, however, that no matter how high an SPF rating a product is given, none completely blocks harmful rays.

3. Replace sunscreen at least every two hours, more if you’re sweating or getting wet.

4. Wear a wide brim hat. Tightly woven clothing can also provide a good shield against a good portion of the UV radiation emitted by the sun.

5. Protect your eyes from cataracts and other eye damage by wearing sunglasses with ratings for both UVA and UVB protection between 99% and 100%.

6. Seek shade between 10 am and 2 pm, whenever possible. This is when the sun’s rays are the most potent.

QUICK TIP: It’s also important to protect your skin from the inside out! Learn More

Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.