While many of us lather on sunscreen while heading to the beach or pool on a hot summer day, most of us don’t apply sunscreen as often as we should when we go about our daily lives. Approximately five million Americans are treated for skin cancer every year, making the need for SPF more important than ever. While you may have a tube of sunscreen sitting in your beach bag, you may not necessarily think to apply SPF while going about errands, walking your dog, or sitting next to your office desk window. Luckily, there are many skincare products available today that have SPF included, making it easy to incorporate SPF into your daily routine without adding additional products.
- Choose a Foundation or Moisturizer with added SPF
Instead of adding another step to your skincare routine, swap out your foundation or moisturizer for one with added SPF. When looking for makeup foundations or moisturizers with SPF added into them, be sure to check that they are labeled as “broad spectrum” with an SPF rating of at least 15 or higher. “Broad spectrum” sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Be sure to also look for zinc oxide or avobenzone to be listed in the ingredients label, as these are active ingredients that help to combat UV rays. Once you’ve applied your foundation, you can apply a powder, which will help your moisturizer and sunscreen stay on your face through the day. Don’t forget to also protect your eyes! Using an eye cream with SPF ensures that the thinner skin around your eyes isn’t being damaged by the sun’s harmful rays. Of course, next time you’re headed to pick up the kids from soccer practice or have a long drive, be sure to grab a hat and sunglasses on your way out the door to fully protect your face.
- Use a Lip Balm containing SPF
Your lips can get burned too! Swap out your lip balm for one containing SPF. Using a lip balm with SPF will ensure that your lips are protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. In addition to protecting your lips from the sun, using lip balm with SPF helps lock in moisture, which can help to heal redness or cracked lips.
- Use a Body Lotion or Moisturizer with SPF throughout the day
Your ears, neck, and upper chest can also be exposed to the sun when you’re on your morning commute, so be sure to swap your body lotion or moisturizer for one that contains SPF. Hint: Keep a bottle at your desk to reapply before you head out on your lunch break. You’ll still be able to get all the benefits of a lotion or moisturizer while also giving your skin sun protection.
Combining these simple steps will help to protect your skin on a daily basis, but remember when you’re heading out for a fun day in the sun, use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher thoroughly and reapply every two hours.