Now that summer is in full swing, people are more likely to spend weekends and evenings outside. This is great, of course - there's nothing like a warm summer evening spent with friends or family! However, harmful UV rays are not just damaging at "peak" hours of the day: They continue to penetrate the skin as the day goes on. Also, contrary to popular belief, staying indoors behind polarized glass or venturing out under cloudy skies offers no protection against the sun's damaging rays.
Remember your sunscreen! And, here's how to figure out which one is best for you:
1. What is your skin type?
a. Fair/Light
b. Medium to Olive
c. Dark
2. How would you describe your skin type?
a. Oily
b. Normal/Combination
c. Dry
3. When exposed to UV rays, does your skin...
a. Immediately burn?
b. Burn then tan?
c. Tan easily with minimal burning?
4. What is your average daily sun exposure?
a. Less then 20 minutes.
b. 30 to 60 minutes.
c. At least an hour.
5. Are you active in the sun (running, soccer, volleyball, etc)?
a. Nope! I just like to lie outside.
b. Yes! I can't keep still.
6. How important are natural ingredients to you?
a. Very! No chemicals please.
b. I'm not that sensitive, so it isn't the most important thing.
Now, add up your results according to these numbers: Each "a" is 2 points, "b" is 3, and "c" is 4. Then, read on!
Score: 12-15 points:
Look for an hypoallergenic, natural sunscreen with effective, broad-spectrum UV blockers (like micro-aerosolized zinc and titanium dioxide) to stop both UVA and UVB rays. Since you probably are also prone to burning, don't pick anything with less than an SPF of 45 (50 blocks 99% of UVB rays). Elta Skincare's UV Pure has an SPF of 47, is an oil-free and chemical-free, physical sunblock, and is very gentle and lightweight. It's even safe enough for children under 6 months!
Score: 16 to 18 points:
Choose a sunscreen that has moisturizing ingredients to address dry skin and to prevent normal skin from becoming dry and irritated. You are fairly active, but your skin probably has the habit of burning before tanning so broad spectrum coverage and a high SPF are necessary. Elta's UV Daily is a good pick: With an SPF of 40 and hyaluronic acid, it will both protect and nourish skin.
Score: over 18 points:
You spend a lot of time outside and are likely active with skin that is darker and tans easily. Although you might miss the sunburns, your skin is in danger of aging more quickly due to the increased sun exposure. It is very important to pick a sunscreen that is both sweat and water resistant. Look for one that is "sporty" and geared towards athletes: Elta's UV Sport is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, has a SPF of 50, and is ideal for your skin.
Now that you know which types of sunscreen to look for, you can go outside and enjoy summer. Just make sure to wear your sunblock -- no excuses!
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