Tips and facts about skin care and sun safety

DID YOU KNOW?

Tanning is never safe, whether from the sun or a tanning bed. A tan actually signifies an injury to your skin cells. For a safe sun-kissed glow, avoid dangerous UV rays and instead pick up a sunless tanning product.

FAST FACTS: SKIN CARE & SUN SAFETY

Most children receive between 50 and 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before they reach the age of 18

While sun damage begins in childhood, most skin cancers do not appear until after age 50.

The best means of protecting yourself against the damaging effects of the sun is by limiting exposure and protecting the skin.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen products protects your skin from damaging UVA and UVB light. Choose products with an SPF of 15 or higher.

To prevent or relieve dry skin, take brief baths or showers in lukewarm water, using a mild soap. Afterward, pat - do not rub - yourself dry.

Lotion works best when you skin is already moistm so apply it right after your bath or shower.

SOMETHING NEW UNDER THE SUN: UV PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

About 1 million Americans will develop skin cancer this year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Fortunately, it is never too late to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. And, one of the best ways to do so is also the simplest: Cover up with sun-protective clothing.

There are three types from which to choose:

Ordinary street clothes.
Many items you already own may be sun-protective. However, the classic white cotton t-shirt is not one of them. Instead, choose long-sleeved shirts and long pants made of tightly woven fabric. Polyester and nylon are best, and darker colors are more protective than lighter shades.

Specially made clothing.
Several companies make apparel certified as sun-protective. Brand names include Solumbra and Coolibar. The clothing is made of special favric blends that protect byt still allow skin to breathe, unlike most standard polyester or nylon garments. Labels include the UV protection factro, of UPF rating. UPF is equivalent to SPF and ranges from 15 to 50.

Clothing laundered in a sun-protective additive.
By adding a prodcut called Rit SunGuard detergent to your washer, you can raise the UPF of that white t-shirt from five to 30. And that is after just one washing, according to research. Two washings in quick succession will boost the UPF to 50.

Of course, clothing cannot cover every inch. For best protection, slather a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 on exposed skin. Add a hat, weaparound sunglasses, and SPF 15 lip balm, and you are ready for your next outdoor adventure.

Want to learn more about sun safety for your whole family?
Visit www.goodneighborpharmacy.com and click on "Library," then "Diseases & Conditions," and then scroll down to choose "Sun Safety."