Dr. Lederhandler: Summer is Coming! (Finally)

Summer is around the corner, which feels like especially great news after this challenging year! As we all begin to get excited about summer getaways, outdoor activities, and camp for the kids, it's a good time to restock on sunscreen and sun protective gear.

I like to apply a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) sunscreen with SPF 30 in the morning as part of my daily routine, and if I'm planning to be outdoors for a prolonged period, I reapply SPF 50 before going out and again every 2 hours. I also reapply after going swimming, even if I've used waterproof sunscreen, as water and sweat will wash the sunscreen off! Reapplying frequently is important because the sun's rays will break down the sunscreen, and with time the sunscreen loses its effectiveness. A good rule of thumb is to reapply every 2 hours, or after sweating, being in the water, or toweling off. Check to make sure your sunscreen hasn't expired!

I'm a big fan of sun-protective clothing (UPF50+), which allows me to skip the SPF to those covered areas! A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses help to block those rays from the eyes, face, and neck, though, of course, sunscreen is still needed as UV rays reflect off the ground, sand, and water.

As a reminder, the sun's UV rays are strongest between the hours of 10AM and 2PM, so hanging in the shade or frequent reapplication of sunscreen is key during those times.

Protecting your skin from the sun not only reduces the risk of skin cancer, but also unwanted early skin aging (brown spots, red spots, wrinkles, sagging skin, and textural change)! #Protecttheskinyourein!