Don't Skip Your Sunscreen!

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Summer is in full swing, and Chicago is feeling the heat! No matter what time of year it is, dermatologists recommend protecting your skin. If you are in the habit of applying sunscreen everyday, give yourself the kudos you deserve. Unfortunately, you are in the minority. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, only 29.9% of women and 14.3% of men regularly slather on the SPF. Here’s what you should know.

GET IT RIGHT!

Here at Stiles Chiropractic, we want to do more than provide you with neck and back pain relief. We want to help you find true health, and that means building healthy habits no matter the season. When you make even just a small positive change in your life, you are taking a step in the right direction, and you want to be sure you are doing it right.

Take sunscreen for example — it’s just putting on lotion, right? There’s nothing to it! Well, there are actually a few things to consider when it comes to sunscreen, starting with the SPF level you choose.

Your sunscreen should have an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 ore more and needs to provide broad-spectrum coverage, which means it protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. We suggest selecting a brand that is water resistant, as spending a day out in the sun usually means fun in the pool or taking part in activity that causes you to sweat.

Apply generously and allow the sunscreen to dry for for at least 15 minutes before you go out in the sun or jump into the pool. Cover every part of your body that’s exposed, including your neck, ears, the tops of your legs and feet, the backs of your hands, and even the top of your head if necessary. Your lips need protection too, so find a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or more.

SUNSCREEN TYPES

Did you know there are different types of sunscreen? You can choose either physical or chemical. Physical sunscreen is thick and pasty and takes longer to rub in, but it does start protecting your skin immediately.

Chemical sunscreen rubs in quickly and with ease, but can take up to 20 minutes to protect you. Physical sunscreen is referred to as sunblock because it contains titanium oxide and/or zinc oxide, which deflects UVA and UVB rays. Alternatively, chemical sunscreen contains ingredients that provide broad spectrum but are irritating to some with sensitive skin.

The most important thing to take away from this is to find the sun protection that works best for you and your family and apply daily.

HAVE FUN OUTSIDE, BUT BE SAFE

We are all about enjoying the long days of summer, and we want you to live a healthy and happy life where you can get outside and enjoy some sunshine. Just be sure to protect your skin and use proper precautions when spending time outdoors so you can enjoy what every day brings for seasons to come!