The Southwest Voice

All > News
Local Expert: Care for the skin you're in
Topics:
Anonymous user Tue Nov 30, 1999 00:00:00 PST
Viewed 296 times
0 responses 0 comments Without question, the most important product in one's skin care regime should be a quality sunscreen.

Sunscreen should be used every day all year long to be effective against the damaging rays of the sun, which can cause skin aging and skin cancer.

Overexposure to the sun creates free radicals, which cause cell damage. Cell damage eventually results in the destruction of collagen and elastin, and possibly alters the DNA, eventually resulting in skin cancers.

UVA rays (aging rays) go to all layers of the skin; UVB rays (burning rays) go no deeper than the outer layers of the skin.Therefore, look for a "broad spectrum" sunscreen that will protect you from both of these harmful rays.

Helpful guidelines:
l. People receive more sun damage going to work and walking outside than just basking in the sun. Wear sunscreen daily.
2. Do not go into the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
3. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
4. SPF stands for "sun protection factor." It represents how long a person can stay out in the sun without burning. For example, SPF 4 allows the skin to be exposed four times as long – or four hours.
5. Most dermatologists and estheticians recommend at least an SPF 15.
6. Use self-tanning products instead of sunbathing.
7. Tanning booths are not a safe alternative. These machines use rays that promote long-term damage.

Remember, your skin has to last you a very long time, so protect it!

Send to a Friend

Report a Violation