As the largest organ in your body, your skin is essential to everyday function in many ways: It provides a barrier between your internal organs and the germs and bacteria of the environment, manages temperature and fluid control, and manufactures vitamin D to keep your bones strong. That said, far too many of us neglect proper skin care practices that keep it functioning at full capacity. As you spend more time outdoors this spring and into summer, protecting your skin becomes even more vital.
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer. With more than 3.5 million new diagnoses every year occurring in the U.S. alone, there are more new cases of skin cancer annually than every other type of cancer combined. While these statistics may seem bleak, there’s some good news as well: Skin cancer, in many cases, is largely preventable by simply adding a few minutes to your daily morning routine, or taking some precautions before spending a day in the sun. Keep in mind these surprising facts and easy fixes to stay safe this sunny season.
1. Not all sunscreens are created equal
Many lotions boast high SPF numbers to make you think you’re fully protected, but fail to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. Before a day outside, be sure pick up a sunscreen marked “broad spectrum,” which offers the fullest protection, and apply generously.
2. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen should be worn every day, even when you plan to stay indoors
You may not need to lather up from head to toe, but covering commonly exposed areas like your face and hands can go a long way in preventing the formation of cancerous cells. Simply switching to a daily facial moisturizer with SPF protection can make a world of difference.
3. You can protect yourself from the inside out
Though sun damage is best prevented by staying in the shade and wearing lots of sunscreen, chowing down on antioxidant-rich foods can give your skin an additional line of defense. Foods like berries, grapes, tomatoes, and peppers up your skin’s natural ability to protect itself from sunburn and aid in healing if one occurs.
4. There’s no such thing as waterproof
While many brands of sunscreen advertised features like all-day waterproof protection, in recent years the FDA has been cracking down on labeling for products that don’t deliver what they promise. Some sunscreens provide water resistance but lose effectiveness after as little as 30 minutes of sweating or swimming, and need to be regularly reapplied to maintain high-level protection.
5. Sunscreen has no effect on your body’s ability to produce vitamin D
A recent study in Australia showed no difference in vitamin D levels in adults who consistently used sunscreen versus those who were given a placebo cream. If you’re still adamant about soaking up your vitamin D sunscreen- free, 10 minutes is all you need to get 100 percent of your daily requirement.
6. There are two kinds of sunscreen: chemical and mineral
Chemical sunscreens use a combination of active ingredients to absorb the sun’s rays in a chemical reaction that dissipates the heat back off the skin. Mineral, however, uses things like zinc and titanium oxide to reflect rays off the skin like a mirror. Mineral sunscreen is usually the more effective type, so be sure to read the fine print when deciding which brand to purchase.
7. Full coverage is the best coverage!
The most commonly forgotten places to sunscreen are the tops of ears, the part in your scalp, and tops of feet. Remember to cover these spots in sunscreen or sun-protective clothing to make sure you’re totally protected.
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