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By Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati

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If so, don't forget the sunscreen! Summer is nearly upon us«and so is the potential for
sunburn! While sun exposure can boost your body·s level of Vitamin D, its ultraviolet rays
can also damage your skin. Sun exposure can prematurely age your skin as well as cause
wrinkles and make your skin look tough and leathery. Years of severe sunburn and/or sun
exposure has been linked to the development of melanoma, a deadly skin cancer.

On the bright side (pun intended!), here are a few ways to maximize the sun·s benefits while
reducing your risk for sun damage, sunburn and skin cancer.

` ^ry and avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun·s ultraviolet rays are
at their strongest.
` When you do go outdoors ² especially for long periods during the middle of the day
² protect exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
that filter ultraviolet light.
` èost importantly, always wear sunscreen.

Ah yes, sunscreen. Walk into any drugstore today and you'll be confronted with enough
products for an army. So, which sunscreen should you choose? And how often to
apply? And at what SPF level? And which one is really the best ² waterproof, long acting,
etc.?

Let's start with SPF. ^his number refers to 3un rotection
actor, the sunscreen's ability to
block harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause you to burn and put you at risk for developing
skin cancer. SPF ranges from 15 to 55«.and even as high as 100! But higher SPF doesn't
necessarily mean better protection. You could use an SPF 30 just as well as a SPF 100...what
matters is that you use it! And often ² especially on the face, neck, and other exposed parts
of the body. Use at least a capful, and re-apply at least every two hours.

It·s important to remember that  sunscreen offers 100% protection against the sun·s
harmful rays. So, no matter how high the SPF ² or claims of ´long lasting,µ ´all day,µ or
´waterproofµ ² continue to apply sunscreen throughout the day. ^his is especially true if
you·re outside for long periods of time, perspiring heavily, and/or in the water. Doing so will
ensure sunny days ahead for your skin.
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