The Importance of Sunscreen

Sun protection

Spring and summer are quickly approaching! Protecting your skin is of utmost importance, and starts with sunscreen. Even when the sun is low in the sky, we are still exposed to its UV rays. Do not forget to apply sunscreen every morning to your face, neck, and hands at the very least. SPF 15 blocks 93% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and SPF 30 blocks 97%. SPF 15 is adequate if we apply as much as they do in testing the sunscreens, though most of us do not. A higher SPF such as 30 or 50 may supply a better amount of coverage for your skin’s protection. Sunscreen ingredients are usually chemicals or minerals such as zinc and titanium. Chemical-based sunscreens tend to breakdown more quickly and contain derivatives of para-amino benzoic acid (PABA) or fragrance, which are common allergens. We recommend that our patients use a mineral-based sunscreen such as Elta MD SPF 46 Clear sunscreen which is virtually invisible after application. We also recommend Intellishade which has a variety of tints which may be used as a foundation. If you have any questions or concerns about sunscreen, please call today or stop by our practice.