Use "print" button from your browser to print this out.

Get Sun Protection-Savvy!
By Tracy Ternes

"The single most important thing an individual can do for their health, for the environment, and for the sake of the innocent animals is to adopt a vegetarian diet."
- Mark Fergusson, Down to Earth CEO

With summertime in full swing and Independence Day right around the corner, now is the time to get sun-protection-savvy! While you are indulging in a “Guiltless Grilling” barbeque, don’t forget about those UV rays shining down on your skin – and into your eyes.

A sunburn can ruin a perfectly good weekend, not to mention increase your risk of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a person's risk for melanoma--the most serious form of skin cancer--doubles if he or she has had five or more sunburns. Be sure to lather up with sunscreen if you plan on being outside during the day. The CDC recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. At Down the Earth, we recommend using sunscreens without the harsh chemicals commonly found in mainstream sunscreen. DTE carries a wide selection for adults as well as children. 

Following are some tips from the CDC about proper sunscreen selection and application:

When To Apply Sunscreen

  • Apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before being in the sun (for best results) so that it can be absorbed by the skin and less likely to wash off when you perspire.
  • Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming or strenuous exercise.
  • Apply sunscreen often throughout the day if you work outdoors, and wear hats and protective clothing.

How To Apply Sunscreen

  • Shake well before use to mix particles that might be clumped up in the container.
  • Be sure to apply enough sunscreen. As a rule of thumb, use an ounce (a handful) to cover your entire body. (Note that this refers to adults)
  • Use on all parts of your skin exposed to the sun, including the ears, back, shoulders, and the back of the knees and legs.
  • Apply thickly and thoroughly.
  • Be careful when applying sunscreen around the eyes.

What To Look for When You Buy Sunscreen

  • Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UV-A and UV-B rays and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
  • Read product labels. Look for a waterproof brand if you will be sweating or swimming. Buy a non-stinging product or one specifically formulated for your face.
  • Buy a brand that does not contain para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) if you are sensitive to that ingredient.
  • Use a water-based sunscreen if you have oily skin or are prone to acne.
  • Be aware of the expiration date because some sunscreen ingredients might degrade over time.

Sunscreen isn’t the only protection you can use against the sun. Stay in the shade whenever possible, wear a wide-brimmed hat and wear lightweight clothing that covers your body.

Be sure that you are not neglecting eye protection. Sun exposure can lead to cataracts later in life and damage the delicate skin around your eyes. Always wear sunglasses outside, even when the sky is overcast. Buy a pair that offers UVA and UVB protection, usually indicated by a sticker on the lens. The majority of sunglasses sold in the United States, regardless of cost, meet this standard. Sunglasses with more coverage work best because they protect more of your face. Wraparound glasses block the UV rays from coming in from the sides. Polycarbonate lenses are another good option.

We want you to have a healthy summer. Stop in our Wellness department for a safe, natural sunscreen, and while you’re here, pick up a natural bug repellent to keep the pests away. After sun exposure, and especially if you do end up with a burn, cover your skin with pure aloe vera gel.

What is one more ingredient to a healthy outdoor-day? Plenty of water! Always stay well-hydrated throughout the day. Make this Independence Day a safe, fun and healthy one.  

For more information about sun protection check out these web sites:

Skin Cancer Foundation, “Facts about Sunburn and Skin Cancer”
CDC, “Sunscreen: How To Select, Apply, and Use It Correctly”
CDC, Skin Cancer, “Choose Your Cover”

 

 

 

Back

close window