Memorial Day Weekend Is Here: Protect Your Skin Right!

As we continue to observe National Skin Cancer Awareness Month throughout May, Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center, a premier medical and cosmetic dermatology center near Boca, wants you to be in-the-know about the best skincare practices and skincare products to protect yourself in the South Florida sun.

Especially when it comes to enjoying some fun in the sun this Memorial Day weekend in Florida!

First and foremost, let’s talk about the best sunscreen tips. With an estimated one in five Americans to develop skin cancer in their lifetime, taking precautions is extremely important and can ultimately save your life. The American Academy of Dermatologyrecommends using sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, an SPF of 30 or higher, and water resistance in order to protect your skin from sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancer.

While using sunscreen is the number one thing you should do to protect your skin, it will not completely protect you without additional skincare practices such as seeking shade during the time of day when the sun’s rays are strongest (10 a.m. and 2 p.m.); wearing protective clothing whenever possible; being extra cautious when near surfaces that reflect the sun’s rays such as water, snow andsand; and avoid tanning beds. It’s also crucial to make it a habit to check your body head-to-toe at least once a year to look for any changes, such as itching or bleeding on your skin. Dermatologists also recommend getting vitamin D through a healthy diet and vitamin supplements, rather than seeking sun.

Not only is choosing the best sunscreen important, but so is understanding the application process. You’ll need enough sunscreen to coat anywhere on your body that is not covered by clothing while you are in the sun. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the dermatologist-recommended amount to cover the exposed areas of the body is one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass. Take note that this amount may need to be adjusted according to individual body size. Make sure to apply your sunscreen about 15 minutes before you go outside, and don’t neglect your lips! Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate when it comes to various parts of the body. Use a lip balm or lipstick with an SPF 30 or higher.

This is the part that most people neglect to do — reapply! Check the directions on your specific sunscreen, but the general rule of thumb is to reapply approximately every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

If you do happen to get sunburned, you should begin to take care of the areas right away.

Recommended treatments include cool baths followed by moisturizing with a lotion that has aloe vera or soy; applying hydrocortisone cream to ease any discomfort; taking Aspirin or ibuprofen to help reduce swelling, redness and discomfort; and drinking lots of water to prevent dehydration. Until the sunburn heals, avoid the sun as much as you can and keep it covered when you are outdoors.

Now that you’re armed and loaded with the best sunscreen tips, let us introduce you to the best sunscreen that can be found right here at Green Dermatology & Cosmetic Center. Our Product Shop offers a Daily Facial Moisturizing Sunscreen and an Oil-free Facial Sunscreen spray, both of which offer broad-spectrum SPF 30. In addition, and to use for the rest of your body, the Sun Shield Cream and Sun Shield Spray both provide even more protection, with broad-spectrum SPF 50+. Visit our Product Shop for information on and to purchase these sunscreen products.

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