In the preceding fifty years the sun’s rays have become more powerful and more intense. Depletion of the ozone layer has changed our way of thinking about sun protection.
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun leads to skin damage and premature aging. However, it is important to take into account that sunlight is critical to good health. Small amounts of UV rays stimulate the body to manufacture vitamin D, an essential vitamin for good health.
Tips for Tanning
It is in fact helpful to get some exposure to the sun. Gradual exposure to the sun’s rays activates the body to go into sun protection mode. The body’s natural sunscreen, melanin, is produced by the lower layer of the skin as a shield against burning. The production of melanin causes the skin color to darken.
Gradual periods of sun tanning allow the natural production of melanin to increase. Exposing the skin for short periods in early morning before 11 am and after 3 pm are considered the best times for exposure. There is no universal rule for a “safe” amount of time to expose skin to the sun, so it is good practice to always keep quick cover-ups handy: a cotton shirt and light cotton pants. These will inhibit painful burns and skin damage.
Do’s and Don’ts with Sunscreen
You should think about a few things before choosing sunscreen products. There are some ingredients in sun screen products that can have harmful side effects. One ingredient that is currently under scrutiny is 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor (4-MBC). Urea formaldehyde is another undesirable chemical and the cause of allergic reactions on sensitive skins. Methyl and propylene parabens are preservatives found in loads of sunscreens that are suspected skin allergens.
If possible, purchase a product without preservatives. Sunscreens deteriorate rapidly when left in a hot vehicle or on the beach so it is always a good idea to use what you require and then place the product in the refrigerator. You should also replace sunscreens regularly, about every 6 months.
The most dangerous aspect of sunscreens is the mistaken sense of security. Skin cancer has not declined with increased use of sunscreens. Sunscreen users assume that by wearing sunscreens they are protected for extended periods of time. To the contrary, sunscreens protect the skin from ultraviolet ray damage; they do not to extend the time it is safe for you to spend in the sun. The SPF or Sun Protection Factor of 40 is not intended to encourage users to stay in the sun 40 times longer! It is an indication of the strength of protection.
Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera and Vitamin E. Aloe Vera allows the skin to store moisture and promote healthy cell growth and leave your skin soft and smooth while Vitamin E is “the” skin-care vitamin. A daily supplement of vitamin E will enhance the production of healthy skin cells.
Choosing and Using Sunscreen
Make certain that the product you select gives full-spectrum protection. Select the correct SPF (sun protection factor). SPF is a measure of how long the wearer can be in the sun with no burning.
Really slather it on. Most people do not rub on a sufficient amount sunscreen for adequate protection.
Reapply at least every 2 hours, after every swim, and after sweating.
Wear sunscreen even whilst you’re driving, particularly on the side of the face and and arm. Your vehicle windows do not offer protection from the sun’s rays.
Don’t depend on sunscreen only. Even whilst wearing sunscreen, avoid direct sunlight between 10 am and 3 pm. Head for the shade when you’re outside, and wear clothing that covers exposed areas, as well as a wide-brimmed hat.
Author Resource:
The Female Zone is all about You! Diet, Weddings, Gifts & Bargains Dieting.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.look4articles.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.look4articles.com/images/rss.jpg "XML Feed For RSS")