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UV Protection

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Sun Block For Acne Prone Skin

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Sun Block For Acne Prone Skin

One of my favorites is Elta MD UV Clear Broad spectrum block, which is a facial sunblock that is good for sensitive skin and acne prone skin (and so often the two overlap). It is a non-comedogenic SPF 46 and blocks both UVA and UVB rays without parabens or added fragrance. Hyaluronic acid plumps fine lines and niacinamide builds the skin’s barrier and calms irritation from breakouts. Another benefit is that this sunblock won’t leave a white residue because of the “transparent zinc technology” the company uses – it is so light-weight my husband will use it, and it can be used alone or under makeup.

Sun Hats

Sun Hats

Hats are in style again! And, hats are a simple way to protect your face and neck from UV rays. When looking for a hat for sun protection, look for one with a UPF rating (UV protection factor) of 30 or higher. There are a variety of great hats that will keep you protected all the way from intense sports to sophisticated social gatherings. For travel, there are hats designed to withstand being smashed between your clothes. Other important factors: It should have a 3 inch brim at least. It should cover the ears and the top of your head And, if it’s woven, the weave should be tight.

Clothes That Protect Against The Sun

Clothes That Protect Against The Sun

Did you know you can get clothes with sun protection built in? Clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) built in to the fabric are a great way to get sun protection while enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.  UPF is a rating system, like SPF – UPF rates protection against both UVA and UVB.  A garment with a UPF of 50 allows only 1/50th of the UV radiation falling on the surface of the garment to pass through. So, it blocks 49/50ths or 98% of the UV radiation.  A UPF rating of at least 15 is required for a garment to be classed as solar UV-protective.  Sun protective clothing are especially helpful when you’re going to be out and about for longer periods of time (think of sporting events, yard work, sight-seeing on vacation, swimming at the beach).  They are also excellent for anyone with sensitivity to sunscreens or sunblocks.

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Small Sun Exposure Adds Up!

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Small Sun Exposure Adds Up!

Look at the right side of your face. Now the left. Now look at your left hand compared to your right. See a difference in the number of freckles or in the texture of your skin? It may be subtle, but many of us have a noticeable difference. Why? It’s from the time we spend every morning and afternoon, driving to and from work–the added UV exposure through the driver-side window (left side of the face) and through the windshield (driving hand). It adds up to quite a lot of sun exposure and ultimately premature aging of skin. In fact, the sun is responsible for 70% of skin aging! Many patients tell me they use sunblock when they’re out in the sun – but if you’re driving to work, or take a quick walk at lunchtime, you’re getting sun– and it’s the small amounts that add up.

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UV Protection For Skin Of Color

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UV Protection For Skin Of Color

We all need to use sunblock or sunscreen to protect us from damaging UV rays, which not only increase our risk of skin cancer but also cause premature damage and aging. But, when I use sunblock I don’t want to feel it and I certainly don’t want everyone to be able to see it – no chalky film, please! Here are a couple of my go-to’s for the face.