Summer Health Tip: Sunscreen Basic Facts

Sunscreen is important!

Sunscreen Basic Facts: a summertime health tip from www.AskaNurseNow.info

I have to admit, I am a RN and have not been the best about being serious on protecting my skin in the summertime.... After all, we live in a culture where sunkissed skin is attractive and a sign of health.

It took me facing a serious health condition to take this to heart. Now, after being diagnosed with a severe type of Lupus, I have experienced firsthand how the sun can greatly hurt my body physically. Even if you do not have Lupus or a health problem that can get worse with sun exposure; it's important to protect yourself. You can send me a thank you card when your older and your skin has retained it's youthful appearance versus wrinkles and sun-spots of those who do not.

After viewing the store's shelf that contained a hundred different types of sunscreens; I had to arm myself with some basic info about what products are the best. The following quick tips will save you time, $$ and skin damage:

• Look for products that contains a SPF factor or 15 or higher AND block both UVA and UVB rays
• Sunscreen usage can begin in children aged 6 months and higher. Good products for younger children/infants are: Aveeno Baby, Neutrogena SPF 30 for sensitive skin, Solbar Zinc, Waterbabies for infants
• The safest ingredients are: Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide
• Other effective UVA and UVB sunscreen ingredients include: Avobenzone (Parsol 1789) and Mexoryl
• Make sure it's waterproof or sweat proof. Sunscreens resist perspiration and swimming: however, re-apply after skin gets wet or every 1.5 hours
• The best sunscreen is the one that you use regularly!
• You may have to try several different brands to find the one that works best for your body and it's chemistry make-up

I know that sunscreen can be a real pain and since most people do not suffer immediate damage, it's not taken that seriously. I now have no choice, but hope you make a conscious one to protect your body- You Deserve It!

Share this blog entry with others you care about. Remember you will always be your biggest advocate and arming yourself with health info that is credible is power! No one will watch out for you more then yourself!

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