Q: Who needs to use sunscreen?
Everyone! No matter what skin type you have. Even if your skin tans easily, sunscreen is a necessity.
According to Ronald L. Moy, MD, FAAD, president of the American Academy of Dermatology:
"Exposure to UV radiation is the leading risk factor for skin cancer, yet—despite this knowledge—droves of teens and young women are flocking to tanning bed facilities and beaches or pools to tan every year."
Q: What do UVA and UVB rays mean to your skin? Should you protect against both?
UV radiation is part of the electromagnetic (light) spectrum that reaches the earth from the sun. The rays we should be concerned with for our skin's health are ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B.
UVA waves are long-wave that penetrates deep within the skin layers. These rays result in aging the skin prematurely.
UVB waves are shortwave rays which will cause redness and burns. These rays penetrate at the surface.
For more information:
http://www.skincancer.org/understanding-uva-and-uvb.html
Q: Is sunscreen higher than 50 SPF more effective than SPF 50?
No, there is not much difference between SPF 50 and SPF 60/70. Ideally you should use a minimum of SPF 30. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF that protects against UVA and UVB.
For more info visit: http://www.aad.org/media-resources/stats-and-facts/prevention-and-care/sunscreens
Q: Is sunscreen waterproof?
Sunscreen is water resistant. Water resistant means it will remain active for approximately 40 minutes with exposure to water. There are some sunscreens that last 80 minutes -- these are usually labeled "very water-resistant." After toweling off or spending time in the sun, reapplication is essential for healthy skin.
Q: What are some other ways to protect my skin?
Do your homework, read labels, and try different products to see what works best with your skin.
Seek shade between 10 am – 4:00 pm, and be extra cautious around water, snow and sand because they reflect the damaging rays. Wear hats and sunglasses.
Julia Bitondo is a Licensed Esthetician at Alliance Healing Arts in Seattle, WA. For more answers to your skincare questions or to make an appointment with Julia, email Julia@goodjujuskincare.com.