REDUCING SUN DAMAGE WHILE ON VACATION

Whether you are cruising or heading to a villa on the beach, vacations are all about the sunshine. While it does wonders for our mood, what it does to our skin is another story.

There are two kinds of ultraviolet rays that you need to protect yourself from.

• Ultraviolet B (UVB). UVB rays cause your skin to show the signs of sunburn, but most sunscreens protect against them.


• Ultraviolet A (UVA). UVA rays penetrate deeply, damaging collagen production and demolishing lipids - causing wrinkles, saggy skin and in extreme cases, cancer.

A good sunscreen is effective against both UVB and UVA. Pay attention to the SPF number - it indicates how much exposure your skin can handle before the sizzle starts. Most dermatologists recommend a minimum SPF 15 for all skin types. Multiply the SPF number by 10. As long as you are not sweating profusely or swimming, an SPF 15 protects up to 150 minutes before burning. Even with a protective sunscreen, dermatologists stress that you will still get some exposure, so reapply often.

For greatest protection, apply a generous amount over all parts of your body and face that will be exposed to the sun - now is not the time to skimp. Let it absorb for at least 15 minutes before applying make-up or going outdoors. Some sunscreens are water-repellent or waterproof, but they still need to be reapplied every two hours. Don't forget your lips - use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.

• Creams and lotions are good choices for use on the face and body.


• Gels are oil-free and won't clog pores.


• Sprays are useful for getting those hard to reach places and for restless children.


• Solid formulas target the lips, ears, nose and sensitiive skin around the eyes.

Before you leave for vacation, treat yourself to a brand new bottle of sunscreen - one that offers complete protection.

source:www.gogirlfriend.com