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 You love the warmth of the sun but not its dangers. Luckily, with a little planning, you can enjoy your time outside while keeping your skin healthy.
The Dark Side of the Sun
The sun produces invisible UV rays, which can damage your skin. These rays are most intense in summer and strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. But UV rays can reach you in all seasons and on overcast days. So you need to think about sun protection all year round.
Slather on Sunscreen
Sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher is a key weapon in the fight against sun-damaged skin. Apply it to exposed, dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours.
Also be sure to use enough sunscreen. For an adult, that's about 1 ounce per use. To protect your lips, use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15.
Be Clothes-Minded
Another key to saving your skin is wearing cover-up clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat. However, not all fabrics are created equal. A typical white T-shirt, for example, has an SPF of only about 3. For better protection, choose tightly woven fabrics in darker colors.
Special sun-blocking clothes are also available. Or check out laundry products with sun-protective additives.
More Bright Ideas
One of the easiest ways to protect your skin is to stay out of the midday sun. Whenever possible, plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Contrary to popular belief, a suntan isn't a sign of health. Both burns and tans are signs that the skin has been injured.
SKIN CARE & SUN SAFETY
FAST FACTS
 
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- To protect your eyes, choose sunglasses that wrap around your temples.
- 70 percent of the sun's rays come through the clouds, so you still need sunscreen on cloudy days.
- With early detection, skin cancer can be cured in 85 to 95 percent of all cases.
- Apply moisturizer right after bathing to lock in moisture.
- Make-up that's labeled noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic won't clog your pores.
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