With summer approaching, the thought of beaches, pools, and other outdoor activities comes to mind. This is not a time to forget about your skin. With the warmth of the summer months come the most potent and harmful rays from the sun. With cautious regard for your skin, you will save yourself some unnecessary pain (sunburn), prevent unnecessary aging, and possibly save your life.

Who needs sunscreen?

In short – everyone. The American Academy of Dermatology recognizes six different skin types and classifies them from a Type 1 that never tans and always burns to a Type 6, those with deeply pigmented skin that never burn. On their website, the AAD is quoted as saying, “The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that, regardless of skin type, a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 should be used year-round.? (Source: www.aad.org) This is an important point to consider since many people tend to think that if they aren’t getting sunburn, they aren’t being harmed.

What is doing the damage?

The damage your skin will incur from the sun is caused by UVA and UVB rays which are both harmful to the skin. UVB rays, which are blocked by window glass, are the sun’s “burning? rays and are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. The UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin causing long-term damage to the skin. Both are harmful, however, they are avoidable with proper use of the right sunscreen.

What is Sunscreen?

Well, the obvious answer is “a screen from the sun? but there is a lot of science behind what makes a sunscreen work. PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), PABA esters, which were the main active ingredients in the first sunscreens, are commonly found in lower grade sunscreens. While these ingredients work to block the UVB light, they can cause serious skin irritation. You should look for sunscreens that are free from PABAs and block both UVB and UVA rays. One of the ingredients that will accomplish this is titanium dioxide, which can be found in the full line of California North sunscreens. Click here to see them.

How can it work for me?

Applying an SPF 15 or greater anytime you are going to spend more than 20 minutes outside is a great way to protect your skin against the short term and long term effects of sun exposure. If engaging in sporting activities, it is wise to use a waterproof sunscreen to prevent sweat from forcing you to keep re-applying the sunscreen. Not only will you keep your skin healthy, you will be moisturizing your skin at the same time, which can improve your appearance and prevent unnecessary aging.