Safe Summer Sun Tips
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Alex Scranton Director of Science |
Summer’s here and the sun is shining!
As the weather heats up and you want to spend more time outdoors, remember to be mindful about your exposure to the sun. Too much sun exposure, particularly if you burn, can cause skin cancer – which is one of the most common forms of cancer in the US. Too much sun exposure also leads to premature aging of the skin (which equals wrinkles!), cataracts in your eyes, and can affect your immune system.
What Can You Do?
Choose Sunscreens Carefully
Unfortunately, sunscreens are not the most reliable way to protect yourself from the sun. Like many beauty products, they are poorly regulated and can contain harmful chemicals you don’t want to put on your skin.
- Look for sunscreens that contain active ingredients like zinc, titanium oxide, and avobenzone.
- Avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), or added insect repellent.
- Avoid sunscreens that come as a spray or powder – it’s likely you will end up inhaling the product! Lotions and creams are a safer bet.
- Check out EWG’s 2014 Guide to Safer Sunscreens and Mindful Momma’s picks for safe sunscreens.
Other Sun Safety Tips
- Find or create shade where you work and play.
- Wear a hat, long sleeves, pants, or long skirts to protect your skin.
- Opt to stay indoors during the midday sun when rays are the strongest.
Happy summer!
Want more tips like this? Check out our Monthly Tip archive!
