Here comes the sun!  Although sunscreen is a year round necessity, more sun exposure occurs during the longer, warmer days.  Sunscreen works to prevent the harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays of the sun from injuring the skin and causing long term damage which leads to wrinkles, dark spots, loss of elasticity and in some, skin cancer.  Here are a few things to think about:

-SPF is not additive. Having two products with SPF 15 will not equal SPF 30

-sun protection is found in makeup and other products used for the face. Look for products with SPF 30 or higher.

-sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 80 minutes when exposed to the sun.  Reapply after swimming or toweling off.

-Physical barrier sunscreens sit on the surface of the skin and can be slightly thicker and chalkier.  Physical sunscreens include titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.  There are a number of chemical barrier sunscreens each Different UVA/UVB specific coverage.  Most products use a combination of physical and chemical barriers to achieve their specific SPF.  Fewer people are allergic/sensitive to the physical sunscreens..

-Spray sunscreens can seem convenient but may offer less coverage.  When spraying, some of the product may not reach the skin.  To prevent missed areas, lotion/cream formulations are preferred.

-several sunscreens available at Cary  Dermatology contain antioxidants to help repair sun damage while they are blocking the UV rays.  Others are better for sensitive skin.

Neostrata Matrix Support sunscreen SPF 30 helps neutralize free radicals and targets dark spots.

EltaMD  sunscreen is broad spectrum and formulated for skin types prone to acne and rosacea.  It is very light and oil free.

So, grab some sunscreen and get ready for spring!!