Summer might be officially over – but proper protection from the sun is something to remember year round!
With so many sunscreen formulations available, each touting promises ranging from "Get the Tan of the Islands!" to "Recommended by Dermatologists Everywhere!," determining which potion is best for you and your family can be overwhelming for even the savviest shopper.
The two factors to take into consideration when selecting a sunscreen are: the skin it will be applied to and the environment it will have to stand up to.
Guidelines for Everyone in the Family:
Infants younger than 6 months should not be exposed to sunscreen. You’ll have to rely on good old fashioned shade for the little ones.
TODDLERS AND YOUNG CHILDREN
Sunscreens formulated in a stick generally have superior staying power and are thus less likely to rub off or get into their eyes. If your child has sensitive skin, conduct a “patch test” by applying a small amount of the sunscreen to the inside of her wrist at least 24 hours before giving her a full-body greasing to ensure that she isn’t allergic to any of the ingredients.
TWEENS AND TEENS
are likely exposed to more sun than anyone else in the household, making this a perfect time to incorporate sunscreen application into their daily hygiene regimen, right along with brushing their teeth. Water resistant sunscreens that provide “full spectrum” coverage against both UVB and UVA rays will provide the most endurance in standing up to your child’s active lifestyle.
ADULTS
Even if the only time you seem to get out of the house is when you don your taxi driver’s hat, those pesky UVA rays penetrate most windshields and add years to your face and hands. Pick a daily moisturizer with a minimum SPF 15 that provides “full spectrum” coverage. Oil of Olay and Aveeno are just 2 of the brands now offering daily moisturizers that contain antioxidants like vitamin C and E, which protect against aging elements in the environment, in addition to the requisite SPF 15 or higher. Don’t forget to dab some on the backs of your hands!
Enjoying fresh air and sunshine with our friends and families is one of life’s simple pleasures. It only takes a few minutes and a few dollars to avoid painful sunburns and potentially serious skin cancers.
When Anna isn't worrying about your sensitive skin, she's talking about life in her twenties and the Life Of A Sportsfan's Daughter.
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