Summer’s Here! Let’s Talk Sunscreen Details You May Not Know!

As the weather warms, many people are taking advantage of a newfound sense of freedom. We may be enjoying much more outdoor activity this year than we did in 2020, so there is no time like now to revisit the appropriate use of sunscreen. We know you’ve probably heard the basics of sunscreen use, that you should apply it before you leave the house. There is more to know beyond that recommendation, though. Read on to see some details you may not have known. 

1. Spray on sunscreen is not exactly as it sounds. Spray on sunscreen is popular because it is quick and effective, making it perfect for parents of squirming kids who are anxious to get on with the business of having fun. Spray on sunscreen is great, don’t get us wrong. However, it must be used properly. For this product to work, it must be rubbed into the skin after application. Otherwise, only tiny particles land, leaving a fair amount of skin unprotected. 
2. The car is not a protected space. Most people drive somewhere nearly every day. Whether you’re going from home to work or taking a road-trip, you need to apply sunscreen even when you’ll be primarily in the car. UV light passes through the windshield and windows of vehicles, so sun damage can happen even when you don’t realize it. 
3. Waterproof sunscreen is a myth. Many people choose water resistant sunscreens because they seem more protective than the standard lotions out there. The thing is, they’re not much different, and they definitely are not waterproof. No such sunscreen exists. If you choose a water resistant sunscreen, you’ll still need to reapply it every 60 to 90 minutes. 
4. Sun damage is cumulative. It’s easy to take an easy-going approach to sun protection. You may say “oh, I’m only running a few errands, not sitting by the pool.” What you need to know is that DNA damage starts the moment UV light hits your skin. Those 10 minutes here and there add up over time if you’re not wearing sunscreen on a daily basis. 

Sun damage is something we want to avoid as much as possible. However, the effects of sun exposure can be handled. To see how we can help you address sun damaged skin, call our Lake Charles office at 337. 477.0011.