We all know that one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from the sun is to regularly use sunscreen. Experts say you should use a sunscreen with SPF 15 anytime you are going to be exposed to the sun for more than 10 minutes. Studies have shown that using SPF 15 everyday provides more protection than using a higher SPF intermittently.

A good sunscreen will block exposure to both UVB and UVA rays. They do this by breaking down collagen, creating free radicals, and inhibiting the natural repair mechanisms of the skin. Neither UVA or UVB rays are visible, but both can separately cause damage to the skin. UVB rays, or ultraviolet light, type B, can cause cellular damage to outer layers of the skin, drying and aging the skin. They penetrate into the deepest cell layers of the epidermis and are the main cause of sunburn, DNA-damage and the development of skin cancer. UVA rays, or ultraviolet light, type A, penetrate deeply into the connective tissue. They cause immunosuppression and chronic light-induced damage. UVA rays are also responsible for phototoxic as well as photoallergic reactions.

Nearly all sunscreens provide some level of protection against UVB rays, though no product yet screens out all UVA rays. SPF sunscreen numbers indicate sunburn protection from UVB rays only. No rating system yet exists for UVA, but if you check the ingredients, the presence of avobenzone, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide indicate that the sunscreen protects from both.

Experts stress the importance of using the recommended amount and re-applying at the correct intervals. Most people only apply 25% to 50% of the recommended amount, so read directions carefully. Sunscreen needs time to penetrate the skin, so it is essential to apply it one-half hour before going out in the sun, and should be reapplied every 2-4 hours, or immediately after swimming, excessive sweating, or toweling.

If you want to keep yourself protected from the sun at all times, avoid being in direct sunlight between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm, wear tight-weave clothing that covers your body, as well as a hat - and wear sunscreen!

Related Articles
	Demystifying the SPF 15 and SPF 30 Debate Have you been shelling out big bucks for SPF 30 (Sun Protection Factor) or higher believing like many of us that it offers twice the protection of SPF 15? Well, if your answer is yes, you are not alone. However, recent research is debunking this belief. Studies have indicated that higher SPFs   ...Read more		Is Your Sunscreen Protecting You? Sun exposure is responsible for up to 90% of premature aging and skin disease. When slathering on sunscreen for protection, it’s important to understand SPF, important ingredients and how to most effectively use this skin protection tool.  According to the leading online beauty/skin ...Read more