We’ve all seen the commercials, heard our mothers’ and doctors’ advice and read the warning articles. But SPF still remains a point of negligence for way too many of us. For a solid 16 years I tried to defy my Irish heritage and insisted on laying out and beaching it with my uber tan girlfriends, sans sunscreen. After several severe sunburns throughout my childhood and early teens (I’m talking blistering, purple skin, too painful to wear clothes or move sun damage), I was only slightly weary about the danger I was exposing myself to.

Finally, halfway through high school, I made peace with being pale and embraced the art of self tanning. Since then I have (tried to) become religious about slathering on sun protection every. single. day. It is a chore sometimes, but when I want to slack on the SPF, I just think of this gadget. Here’s how to work SPF into your lifestyle easily.

SPF Moisturizer: For every day exposure, protection while going to and from work or school, or spending minimal time outdoors. Daily use of a low SPF sunscreen (like 15) can reduce sun damage even more than occasional use of a super high SPF. Sub this for your regular morning face lotion. Aim for at least 30. Most people don’t use the right amount of sun protection (about a teaspoon for your face)–they usually use only half, so double the level of SPF you desire. If you think you’ll miss that sun kissed glow you achieve on your cheeks and nose, try Neutrogena Summer Glow Daily moisturizer. You’ll still get a healthy glow…emphasis on healthy.

Sun Screen and Sun Block: There is a difference! A quick tutorial:
Sun screen: By far the most popular sun protection products, they absorb UV rays before your skin can. They come in the most variety of forms, and still allow for some gain of color (but tan at your own risk! Even the slightest change in your skin shade indicates sun damage).
Sun block: Offers a stronger level of protection by reflecting UV rays. Usually somewhat thicker in consistency, but technology has improved that factor. (Remember that sticky, thick coating that Mom used to rub on and acted as a sand magnet? Yea, it’s improved since then.)

Overall, the two act in much the same way and are ideal for any serious outdoor activity.
Remember, application is even more important than the level of SPF you need. You should use a shot glass sized amount (great excuse to have one handy at your next pool party!), at least on your body. Basically, put it anywhere your skin might be exposed and apply enough so that a film is visible before it dries. Apply it before you hit the great outdoors, because SPF takes 20-30 minutes to start working. I like to do mine before I get dressed or put on my bikini, therefore allowing ample time and preventing it from ruining my bathing suit.

Another important thing to remember about sun protection is that it is temperature, time and chemically sensitive. A good rule of thumb is to treat your sunscreen like you would your condoms! Seriously though, avoid high temp storage (in the car, a no no), always check the expiration date, and remember that certain medications (like antibiotics) interact negatively with SPF.

Be aware that while all blocks and screens block UVB rays (the ones that fry you), they don’t all block UVA rays (aging rays). Check the label to see if it specifically protects against both types of damage. Two brands that protect against both are Neutrogena–which uses Helioplex technology to battle aging and cancer, and L’Oreal (or any of their products, including Kiehl’s and Lancome):they use the chemical screen Mexoryl.

So ladies, whenever you head outdoors this summer, remember to wear protection! Ok, enough with the condom jokes. But seriously, it will establish a good habit. Come your 50th birthday you will be very grateful for that your skin is in better condition than your brand new leather handbag.

[Photo courtesy of ebaumsworld.com]