Five of the Biggest Sun-Protection Mistakes Women Make

Having fun in the sun comes with the dangers of skin damage due to the sun's UV rays. This article discusses the five biggest sun-protection mistakes that women make when going out into the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology (ADA) states that, "Sun protection is the principal means of preventing premature aging and skin cancer. It's never too late to protect yourself from the sun and minimize your future risk of skin cancer."

Not Using Enough Sunscreen- This is a huge mistake that women use. I know that I am guilty of sometimes only slathering it on my face to avoid wrinkles. It's recommended that a woman uses at least a shot glass full amount of sun screen. If a shot glass is not handy an adult palm full is close enough. Remember that lips can get burned too! Apply lip balm with SPF of 30. Leave a tube in your purse or pocket so you can reapply frequently throughout the day.

Not Reapplying Enough- For optimum coverage, a woman should reapply her sunscreen every 30 minutes. This will ensure that any areas that didn't get covered in the last application, will then get a second chance to be covered. If every 30 minutes is not possible, then an effort needs to be made to ensure that sunscreen is reapplied at least every two hours. Reapplication is also necessary after excessive sweating, swimming or toweling off.

Thinking a Tan or Darker Skin Tone offer Protection from the Sun- Some women with darker skin tones believe that because they do not burn easily, that they do not need protection from the sun. At this year's Annual meeting of the American Medical Association, skin cancer prevention in communities of color was discussed ""All patients regardless of race or ethnicity should use the same sun protection measures including sunscreen of at least SPF 15, avoid the sun during peak hours and regular exams," said AMA Board Member Peter W. Carmel, M.D. "However, African Americans and Hispanics are much less likely to practice these behaviors, and the AMA supports efforts to increase awareness."

Not using the Right Strength Sunscreen- SPF in sunscreen can range from 2 to around 50. SPF refers to the ability of the sunscreen to deflect the sun's rays that cause sunburns. The ADA recommends a SPF of 30 or higher and protects skin from a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB rays.

Not Avoiding the Sun's Direct Rays- This doesn't mean that a woman has to stay indoors on a nice sunny day! The suns rays are the most intense between 10 am to 4 pm. Limiting time spent outdoors during the sun's peak hours can help to protect a woman's skin. Wearing a hat that protects the face and neck is a fashionable way of preventing skin cancer. There are also clothing makers produce clothing that offer SPF protection. The online store Solartex, offers a wide range of clothing for Women, men and children. In the description of their clothing, Solartex says that their clothing offers "offer 50+ SPF / UPF protection, blocking over 98% of sun rays".

Websites consulted:

http://www.aad.org/media/background/factsheets/fact_sunscreen.htm

http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/news/news/2010-new-policies.shtml

http://www.solartex.com/servlet/the-Adults--dsh--Sun-Protection/Categories