Protecting yourself against the sun’s harmful rays is not always easy but by taking a few precautions and being smart about how you approach outdoor activities, you can do a fair bit of damage control – and prevention. Here are a few tips:
Limit Exposure to Harmful UV Rays
- Avoid indoor tanning and limit sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are at their strongest. Consult the Environment Canada website to find out about predicted UV levels, and plan accordingly. Bobbi Brown’s Bronze Shimmer Brick will give you that coveted sun-kissed glow, without harmful rays.
- Whenever possible, seek shade from trees, awnings and buildings, or create your own by wearing a hat. If you don’t wear hats, protect your hair from sun damage with OJON Shine and Protect Shampoo and Conditioner or Frederic Fekkai’s Brilliant Glossing Cream, which protects hair from heat styling as well as the sun.
- Use moisturizers or sunscreens with at least SPF 30 – meaning that in theory, it would take 30 times longer for the skin to burn with this sunscreen than without. Look for products that protect you from both UVA and UVB rays, including Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Oxybenzone, Meradimate and Mexoryl XL.
- When applying sunscreen, pay close attention to your shoulders, the back of your legs, your hairline, your neck (front and back,) your ears, and of course your face. Try Aveeno Active Naturals Sunblock Lotion SPF 55, Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 45 Daily Moisturizer with Helioplex™ and Murad’s Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30 (only available in the US.)
- Apply sunscreen liberally: aim to use about 30-40 mL per application, and reapply every two hours and after swimming. Noses burn quickly, and lips are often forgotten. Be sure to use a lip balm with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 30, such as the Clinique Sun SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick (also good for the fragile eye area.)
Learn all About SPF and Sunscreen
- Look for products that meet the Canadian Dermatology Association’s main criteria: product contains a UVB Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30; a broad spectrum UVA block; minimal or no perfume; and is hypo-allergenic, non-irritating and non-comedogenic (less likely to clog pores.)
While redness and sunburns can be seen as minor, temporary irritations, long-term exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can result in premature aging and certain types of skin cancer. Often, cumulative damage caused by continued sun exposure will take years to surface. Start protecting your skin now, for a bright, healthy future.
Sources: Murale and The Canadian Dermatology Association.
Andree Lachapelle - Andrée reviews books, movies and local events, and brings you essential beauty, fashion, travel and wedding planning tips.
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