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Summer is calling, and many of us are swapping our usual indoor workout sessions for sunshine-soaked runs, sandy beach yoga and laps in the pool. However, sweat, sand and water pose a major threat to your sun protection. So, before packing your gym bag or beach bag, don’t forget to toss in the sunscreen—and take this refresher course in skin protection that would make your dermatologist proud.
SUNSCREEN IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
Whether you’ve heard it from a relative, a doctor or a celebrity cautionary tale, we’ve all been advised of the health benefits of applying a daily sun protectant. It’s up there with flossing daily and getting enough sleep. But did you know UV rays can cause cancer, and break down collagen in your skin, creating wrinkles and sunspots? Knowing this should make applying sunscreen viewed as more of a necessity than a chore. If you want to protect that sun-kissed, dewy skin, then remember sunscreen is non-negotiable.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Pop quiz! Did you know that SPF is actually an acronym for sun protection factor? In other words, the SPF number on your bottle is the probable amount of time after applying sunscreen that you could stay in the sun without being burned by UVB rays. For example, with an SPF 15 multiplied by 20 minutes (the amount of time it normally takes your skin to burn without protection) equals 300—the number of minutes you can stay in the sun without burning.
Speaking of timing, your broad-spectrum sunscreen (a protectant from both UVB and UVA rays) should be applied 15 minutes before going outside—yes, before you leave the house. This will ensure your skin soaks it in to offer optimal protection.
WHEN IN DOUBT, REAPPLY
Even though you should be leaving the house with about a shot-glass-sized portion of sunscreen slathered on your skin, the rule is to reapply every two to three hours if you’re going to be in the sun. If you’re doing laps in the pool or enjoying an especially sweaty workout, apply more often—at least every hour. Otherwise, these activities will reduce the amount of sun protection you’re getting. An even better option is to reach for a water-resistant sunscreen, which promises up to 80 minutes of protection while your skin is wet.
SAVE FACE
When choosing the right sunscreen for your skin, a lightweight formula is best for avoiding that greasy look and feel we all hate. A weightless moisturizing sunscreen can also help you avoid a major makeup meltdown for those post-workout plans. Here at Ellie, our go-to is Fré Defense Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 (found in this month's 5-item box). It’s ultra-lightweight texture goes on sheer and is formulated for skin that sweats.
We hope your summer is free of painful sunburns and full of healthy, skin-saving habits. Show us your outdoor fun by tagging #LOVEELLIE.