In the preceding fifty years the sun’s rays have become stronger and extra extreme. Depletion of the ozone layer has changed our way of thinking about sun protection.
Long exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun leads to skin damage and premature aging. However, it is important to bear in mind that sunlight is central to good health. Small amounts of UV rays stimulate the body to manufacture vitamin D, an essential vitamin for good health.

Guidelines for Tanning

It is in reality positive to get some exposure to the sun. Gradual exposure to the sun’s rays activates the body to go into sun protection mode. The body’s natural sunscreen, melanin, is produced by the lower layer of the skin as a shield against burning. The production of melanin causes the skin color to darken.

Gradual periods of sun tanning permit the natural production of melanin to increase. Exposing the skin for short periods in early morning before 11 am and after 3 pm are considered the best times for exposure. There is no general rule for a “safe” amount of time to expose skin to the sun, so it is good practice to always keep quick cover-ups handy: a cotton shirt and light cotton pants. These will prevent painful burns and skin damage.

Do’s and Don’ts with Sunscreen

You ought to think about a few things before purchasing sunscreen products. There are some ingredients in sun screen products that can have damaging side effects. One ingredient that is presently under scrutiny is 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor (4-MBC). Urea formaldehyde is another undesirable substance and the source of allergic reactions on sensitive skins. Methyl and propylene parabens are preservatives found in many sunscreens that are suspected skin allergens.

If possible, buy a product devoid of preservatives. Sunscreens deteriorate rapidly when left in a hot car or on the beach so it is always a good idea to use what you need and then place the product in the fridge. You should also replace sunscreens frequently, about every 6 months.

The most dangerous aspect of sunscreens is the mistaken sense of security. Skin cancer has not declined with increased use of sunscreens. Sunscreen users think that by wearing sunscreens they are protected for extended periods of time. To the contrary, sunscreens shield the skin from ultraviolet ray damage; they do not to extend the time it is safe for you to spend in the sun. The SPF or Sun Protection Factor of 40 is not intended to encourage users to stay in the sun 40 times longer! It is an indication of the strength of protection.

Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera and Vitamin E. Aloe Vera helps the skin to hold moisture and promote healthy cell growth and leave your skin soft and smooth while Vitamin E is “the” skin-care vitamin. A daily supplement of vitamin E will enhance the manufacture of healthy skin cells.

Choosing and Using Sunscreen

Make sure that the product you choose provides full-spectrum protection. Choose the correct SPF (sun protection factor). SPF is a measure of how long the wearer can be in the sun without burning.
Really slather it on. Most people don’t rub on sufficient sunscreen for adequate protection.
Reapply at least every two hours, following every swim, and after sweating.
Wear sunscreen even while you’re driving, particularly on the side of the face and and arm. Your car windows don’t present protection from the sun’s rays.
Do not depend on sunscreen only. Even whilst wearing sunscreen, stay away from direct sunlight between 10 am and 3 pm. Head for the shade when you’re outside, and wear clothes that covers uncovered areas, including a wide-brimmed hat.