Skin Care Tips

Exposure to sun is extremely damaging to skin and is one factor you can control. Although not so long ago a deep tan was considered healthy, we know now that it can lead to premature aging of the skin, skin cancer, and more. It only makes sense to protect yourself and loved ones like children from the damaging suns rays.

Staying inside and otherwise hiding from the sun entirely is usually not practical or fun, so usually some mixture of clothing such as long sleeve pants and shirts and hats together with sunscreen is used for protection. You can't always wear lots of clothing for various reasons, but you can use sunscreen.

Here are 5 tips to help you protect with sunscreen.

1) Make sure you have sunscreen available. Although this may sound silly, it really isn't. I have sunscreen in my office, at home, and also carry it in my car. My wife also carries it in her purse, at least during the summer, and I have a small tube with my bike at all times.

2) Sunscreen takes a while to start working. Apply it 20 to 30 minutes before going out into the sun

3) Use SPF 15 minimum, and apply it liberally. Make sure your sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays. If you wear makeup you may find makeup with sunscreen in it to at least protect your face.

4) Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 2-3 hours, perhaps more if swimming or sweating.

5) Don't forget your children, even if you need to chase them. There are some easier to apply spray and other sunscreens that make applying it to children easier.

Sun can cause extensive skin damage, but you have control. Cover up and use sunscreen! Bald men don't forget your heads!