Sun Protection Myths Busted

Chloe doesn’t leave home without wearing SPF 50 sunscreen. Thought I’d bust 6 myths about sun protection.

 

suncreen bucketMyth #1: You don’t need sunscreen if you already have a tan.

Fact: A base tan is no substitute for sunscreen. Everybody, regardless of race or skin type, is at risk. Even people who tan easily should use sunscreen.

 

Myth #2: Sunscreen with SPF-30 provides twice as much protection as SPF-15.

Fact: No. Sunscreen with SPF-15 protects against 93% of UVB rays, SPF-30 97%, and SPF-50 protects against 98% of UVB rays. Most experts believe SPF-30 is enough, provided you use it properly. Keep in mind – SPF ratings only apply to UVB (burning rays) protection. Look for sunscreens labeled Broad-Spectrum for UVA (aging rays) protection.

 

Myth #3: The amount of sunscreen you use doesn’t matter, as long as you use it.

Fact: Most people don’t use enough or don’t re-apply every 2 hours as recommended. At least one ounce or 2 tablespoons (the equivalent of a shot glass) is needed for most adults. Apply it 15-20 minutes before going outside to allow it time to absorb into the skin. Waterproof sunscreens lose some of their effectiveness after 40 minutes in the water.

Also, 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can pass through clouds. UV rays can be reflected off sand, water, and snow and can penetrate car windows as well. I’ve seen skin cancers on a truck driver’s left arm and hand.

 

Nicolette sky with birdbackyard in winterMyth #4: Sunscreen blocks the body from absorbing Vitamin D.

Fact: Using sunscreen does not block the body’s ability to make vitamin D. In fact, the amount of sun exposure you need for your daily vitamin D is minimal. Most people get enough by doing everyday outdoor activities. In the winter, you can boost your vitamin D by eating foods such as fish, milk, and eggs.

 

Myth #5: Using sunscreen will prevent skin cancer completely.

Honey, put a hat on!

Honey, put a hat on!

Fact: Wearing sunscreen everyday reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. However, many people still get sunburned while using sunscreen because they don’t use it properly. You can also:

  • Stay out of the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
  • Wear sun protection rated clothing (long sleeved shirts and pants) and hats. Use an umbrella at the beach.
  • Wear sunglasses that protect from both UVA and UVB rays.

Myth #6: Tanning beds are safer than getting a natural tan.

Fact: NO. It’s the opposite. Tanning beds increase your risk of skin cancer ten-fold. Completely avoid tanning beds! 

“It doesn’t matter what form of sun protection you choose, make sure you put something between your skin and the sun.”  Chloe’s thinking of using Rip 🙂

There you have it – so get outside and enjoy the day – but wear your SPF-30!

 

She’s got it all Perfectly Planned . . .

PerfectlyPlannedFlat2_850Chloe Keay is on the hunt for the perfect sperm donor, but who knew it would be this hard? So many things to consider in a father – sure height and hair color are important, but what about the real issues. How does he feel about bagpipe music? Does he buy the extended warranty? Skittles or M&Ms? She doesn’t want an average Joe. She’s narrowed it down to two candidates and has the perfect plan to pick the heir and the spare.

Staff Sergeant Rip Logan, head of the elite Tactics and Rescue Unit, has a gut feeling that Chloe Keay is trouble. She’s a sexy little spark plug who radiates innocence, but it doesn’t jibe with her suspicious behavior and probing questions. The fact that he’s attracted irritates him. What exactly is she after? And should he go with his gut or follow his heart?

Planning for love – what could possibly go wrong?

Buy it HERE 😀