Enjoy the Sunshine While Protecting Your Skin: Your Guide to SPF and Sun Safety
By: Kathryn Levesque, Holistic Aesthetician + Reiki Practitioner, and Dr. Ashley Dumont, ND Coastal Thyme Holistic Skin + Wellness, Portsmouth, NH
Here at Coastal Thyme Holistic Skin + Wellness, we want you to soak up all the beauty summer has to offer! But with those long, sunny days comes the responsibility to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
Understanding SPF: Your Shield Against Sun Damage
Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, is a number that indicates a sunscreen's ability to block UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn. Here's a breakdown of what different SPF levels offer:
SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays (Recommended minimum for daily use!)
SPF 100: Blocks about 99% of UVB rays
Broad Spectrum Protection
Look for "broad spectrum" on the sunscreen label. This means it protects against both UVB rays (burning) and UVA rays (aging). UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging and wrinkles.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Choosing What's Right for You
There are two main types of sunscreens: mineral and chemical.
Mineral Sunscreens: These sunscreens sit on top of the skin, reflecting UV rays. They are often gentle and preferred by those with sensitive or acne prone skin. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium oxide may leave a slight white cast, and take a few minutes to melt into the skin.
Skin Tip: If you naturally have a deeper skin tone, opting for mineral sunscreens with iron oxides not only give your skin a tinted- filter glow, but also protect against harmful blue light from cell phones and screens.
Chemical Sunscreens: These sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat that is released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens are typically lightweight and feel invisible on the skin.
Skin Tip: Although we recommend using a mineral or chemical sunscreen as your main form of protection, powder SPFs can be used throughout the day every 2 hours to keep your skin protected, especially if you wear makeup!
Not sure which type is right for you? Our team at Coastal Thyme can help! We offer a variety of sunscreens to suit all skin types and preferences. As always, the best sunscreen is the one you will consistently use!
Beyond SPF: Sun Safety Tips for a Happy, Healthy Summer
Sun protection goes beyond sunscreen! Here are some additional tips to keep your skin safe in the sun:
Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 am - 4 pm).
Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long, loose-fitting clothing.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if sweating or swimming.
Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate your skin.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection: Be Sun Smart, Be Proactive
Knowing how to identify potential signs of skin cancer is an important part of sun safety. Here's the ABCDE rule of melanoma detection:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
Border: The borders are uneven or irregular.
Color: The mole has multiple colors, such as brown, black, or tan, and may also have patches of white, gray, blue, pink, or red.
Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (¼ inch) in diameter.
Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation.
If you notice any changes in a mole or have any concerns about your skin, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for a professional evaluation.
Coastal Thyme Holistic Skin + Wellness is Here to Help!
At Coastal Thyme Holistic Skin + Wellness in beautiful Portsmouth, New Hampshire, we believe in a holistic approach to skincare, and that includes sun protection. Our team of experts can help you find the perfect SPF product for your skin type and recommend additional sun safety strategies. Let us help you embrace the sunshine safely this summer!
Click here to schedule your initial holistic skincare treatment with our experts!
