Florida has beautiful beaches and lots of sun. However, the harmful rays of the sun can lead to skin cancer and aging. The best way to protect yourself from sun damage is avoiding the sun, wearing sun protection clothing and hats, and applying SPF frequently.
The first line of defense is to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. Try to limit sun exposure between 10am and 2pm daily. Wear sun protective clothing with UPF 50+ and wearing a hat is very beneficial while out in the sun. If unable to wear UPF clothing that covers the sun exposed skin cover the bare skin with some type of clothing is better than nothing. The denser and thicker the fabric the greater reduction in UV transmission. Generally, darker colors absorb more rays overall, including UV rays. Polyester and Nylon does an excellent job at disrupting UV light, while wool and silk are moderately effective. Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ daily to sun exposed areas. Sun block should protect you from UVA and UVB rays and should be water resistant for at least 40 minutes. Apply SPF to dry skin 15 minutes BEFORE going outdoors and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Remember no matter how high the SPF the amount of time it last is the same so reapply frequently. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30+, which blocks 97 percent of the sun’s UVB rays. Higher-number SPFs block slightly more of the sun’s UVB rays, but it is important to remember no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun’s UVB rays. Sun blocks with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the best for your skin. These are chemical free and use minerals to physically block the sun UV rays.
You should be wearing an SPF 30+ or higher with Zinc and Titanium Dioxide of 4% or higher daily. Apply sun block at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or more frequently. Avoid the sun as much as possible, specifically between 10am and 2pm. Wear sun protective clothing and a wide brim hat. If you follow this few simple sun rules you can continue to have fun in the sun with minimizing the harmful effects of the sun such as skin cancer and aging.
Here at Hermann Aesthetics & Wellness we offer multiple types of sun block for all skin types. We have Intellishade SPF 45 a tinted sunscreen for everyday use, and oil free Elta MD SPF 46 sun block for sensitive and/or acne prone skin, and Obagi Sun Shield SPF 50 for when going out in the sun. Hermann Aesthetics & Wellness has lot of cosmetic services to help correct sun damage and reverse signs of aging. Offices in St. Pete (727) 278-3992 and Tampa (813) 902-9559.