So now you're convinced that the sun turns skin to toast? You've sworn to use sunscreen every day? Great. Now all you have to do is choose the right product and use it correctly. Here's how.
Follow the numbers. For everyday protection, use a sunscreen that contains a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, says Dr. Franks, and
apply it 30 minutes before going out into the sun. Every day. Even when you don't see a hint of sun. (Clouds can block brightness but they may allow as able
much as 80 percent of UV light to reach your
skin.)
If you plan to spend time on the golf course,
tennis court, or ski slope, use a sunscreen with an
SPF of 30, says Dr. Fusco. Ditto, if you spend a
lot of time on a boat or at the beach. Sun reflects
off water and bounces onto your skin, which in
tensifies its damage. And since perspiration, ex
cessive toweling, and water can wash sunscreen
away, reapply it occasionally. You may want to
try one of the many waterproof sunscreens avail
able, but remember that it also has to be reapplied.
Broaden your protection. A sunscreen's SPF factor measures only its UVB coverage, says Dr. Franks. So make sure that the sunscreen you buy is labeled "broad spectrum," meaning that it absorbs both UVB and UVA rays. Most broadspectrum sunscreens contain Parsol 1789 or titanium dioxide.
Don't be stingy. Use
marble size amount of sunscreen to cover your face, two "Marbles" to cover your neck and chest, says Dr. Fusco. if you
use Makeup or moisturizer and a sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first. You want it as close to your skin as possible.
Use "built in" sunscreens. To save time, money and medicine cabinet spaces use a moisturizer or foundation With an SPF of at least 15. "For everyday use, these products are as effective as sunscreen alone, when used properly," says Dr. Fusco. "But you must remember to apply the equivalent of 1 teaspoon of foundation to assure the sun protection factor promised."
Wrinkle proof your kisser. Sun damage can eventually crinkle lips, too. So wear a lipstick or lip balm with added sunscreen to help keep lips soft and youthful looking) says Dr. Fusco.
