Everyone has seen the stereotypical zinc-nosed lifeguard
sitting high above the beach with his safety float, whistle, and aviator shades,
right? Well, unfortunately it takes a lot more than a small smear of zinc oxide
on the nose to keep skin safe, smooth, and protected in the hot summer sun, and even in the colder winter sun. We know you’ve heard it before, but it is VITALLY important to wear sunscreen all year round- especially in NZ!
Use a sunscreen that fits your skin type. If your skin
burns easily use a higher SPF, or sun protection factor, sunscreen. If you have
skin that tans easily but rarely burns, use a SPF that fits. SPF is calculated
by how long unprotected skin takes to burn. If unprotected skin takes ten
minutes to burn, than an SPF of 20 would multiply that time by twenty; meaning
that with SPF 20 it would take 200 minutes for skin to burn. (But remember, to keep the same level of protection during that time you need to reapply every 2 hours!)
According to the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services,
UVA rays are responsible for skin aging and 95% of sun exposure. UVB rays, the
rays responsible for burning, affect mostly the outer layer of skin. Find a
sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB, because some sunscreens only
protect against UVB rays.
No matter the region, sunscreen application is vital for
maintaining beautiful skin. Use enough for daily coverage, and if you are in
the sun for extended periods of time, apply sunscreen every two hours. Remember
the top and back of your head, and the backs of your ears when applying, as
these areas are often overlooked.
As noted in jest previously, zinc oxide is actually one
of the best forms of sunscreen. However, in its pure form it is quite opaque
and thick, so look for sunscreens that offer micronized zinc oxide. Zinc oxide
is not only natural, but it can’t be absorbed into the skin and it works as a
protective barrier reflecting the sun’s rays.
Stay safe, and stay beautiful in the sun.
About Nicki Spence
