GLOW: with sunscreen safety tips.
I know. Summer is almost over. The topic of sunscreen and all of my tips are a little late for your summer vacation plans. I had hoped to share this video a month or two ago but time got away from me!
BUT, as you will hear in the video, wearing sunscreen, for me, is a season-less topic. Anytime of year is a great time to wear sunscreen. I wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the season or weather report.
I wish more people talked about this important healthy habit. There are tons of cool and trendy healthy fads that people show off on Instagram. Sadly, sunscreen use is not as chic as a smoothie bowl or yoga pose.
Maybe someday sunscreen will be cool again… erm, cool to begin with? Anywhoo… this post and video is my geeky attempt to spread the message that sunscreen is smart and hip.
Watch this week’s video to hear me wax poetic about sunscreen and my reasons for wearing it every day!
My 7 Sensible Reasons to Wear Sunscreen:
1. Cancer and inflammation.
Because the sun is a deadly lazer. First and foremost, I wear sunscreen to help prevent cancer and irritation to my skin.
2. Photoaging.
What’s the best “antiaging” cream you can buy? A sunscreen you will wear every day! Just look at this truck driver’s face to see the aging effects of sun on our skin.
3. Safety.
Sunscreens are generally considered safe but there is a ton of fear mongering out there. Like everything in life, it is important to weigh the risks versus the benefits and look at the science. We are always learning new things about ingredients, so it is important to be on the lookout for updated information. But today, for me, the benefits of sunscreen far outweigh the current body of evidence that indicates possible harm in humans. You can read more on the common sunscreen safety concerns (from a dermatologist’s perspective) here.
4. Accumulation.
The sun is a deadly lazer, remember? It can penetrate clouds and untreated windows. Sun exposure and ultraviolet damage accumulates over your lifetime and increases your risks of cancer. Every 5 or 10 minutes adds up. Therefore, I apply sunscreen every day, rain or shine, before I leave my house. (And reapply at least a couple of times a day.)
5. I’m tired.
My skin comes in two shades: pale or sunburnt red. I’m tired of trying to achieve that popular tanned summer look, even with sunless tanners (I’m a klutz at applying and frankly lazy). It’s easier for me to focus on protecting my skin and embracing my current complexion.
6. OPTIONS.
Sunscreen, you’ve come a long way, baby! When was the last time you tried sunscreen? There are a TON of great options out there that are not greasy or sticky. Sometimes, it’s trial and error to find ones you love… but there are so many choices out there in drug stores and online today.
7. Julianne Moore.
Have you seen her? She’s 56 years old. There’s a reason she’s been nicknamed the poster child for sunscreen!
I hope these reasons inspire you to consider wearing sunscreen, if you don’t already. For more information about this topic, check out my ultimate playlist collection.
Stay tuned! I’m working on two more sun safety and sunscreen videos for you to make this into a Sensible Sun Safety Series. In my next two videos, I plan to cover more about the sunscreens I love and my sunscreen wardrobe (I have tried a LOT of sunscreen!). And I also want to review other ways to protect yourself from the sun, like sun protective clothing and other products I find helpful.
Disclaimer: Please read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions of any product you use. All opinions on beauty and skincare products are my own and not meant to be endorsements or medical advice. This post/video is provided for informational purposes only. It is what works (or doesn’t work) for me. As always, your experience may vary. The information shared does not establish a patient and healthcare professional relationship. If you have concerns about your skin and health, please consult with your personal health care professional. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
