Don't Skip Out On Sunscreen!

Summertime is quickly approaching, and here in Brooklyn, we’re starting to feel the heat. No matter what time of year it is, it is always important to protect your skin. If you’re already in the habit of applying sunscreen everyday, give yourself a nice pat on the back. Unfortunately, you are part of the minority. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that only 29.9% of women and 14.3% of men regularly wear sunscreen. Here's what you need to know.

Get It Right!

At Williamsburg Chiropractic, we strongly encourage building healthy habits no matter the season. When you add something new to your routine, you are taking a step in the right direction, and you want to be sure you do things right.

Sunscreen is just putting on lotion after all, nothing to it! There are actually a few things to consider when it comes to sunscreen, starting with the level of protection you choose.

Your sunscreen needs to have an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher and needs to provide broad-spectrum coverage, meaning you are protected from both UVA and UVB rays. We suggest using a brand that is water resistant, as a warm sunny days usually means a warm sweaty day or fun in the pool or at the beach.

Be sure to apply a generous amount and allow it to dry for at least 15 minutes before you go outside or take a dip in the pool. Cover every part of your body that is exposed. Don’t forget your ears, neck, the tops of your legs and feet, and even the back of your hands. Even your lips need protection, so find a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15.

Types of Sunscreen

Did you know there are different types of sunscreen — physical and chemical. Physical sunscreen is pasty and thick and is the type of lotion that takes longer to rub in, although it does start protecting your skin immediately.

The second type of formula, chemical sunscreens, rubs in easily and quickly but can take up to 20 minutes to become effective. Physical sunscreen is referred to as sunblock as it contains zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide which deflects both UVA and UVB rays from the top of the skin. Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, contains several ingredient that provide broad spectrum but some find that it is irritating to their skin.

The important thing is to find a sunscreen that works for you and your family and apply daily!

Play Outside, But Play It Safe

Summer is just days away, and we want you to live a healthy life, and that means getting outside and getting some sun. Just be sure to play it safe and use proper precautions when spending time outdoors so you can enjoy what every day brings!