Here comes the sun; protect skin now
The American Academy of Dermatology says don't wait until you're at the beach or pool on a hot summer's day to apply sunscreen. (April 12, 2009) Credit: Newsday/Audrey Tiernan
It may be too early for swimwear, but the wear and tear on your skin caused by the sun knows no seasons.
The American Academy of Dermatology says don't wait until you're at the beach or pool on a hot summer's day to apply sunscreen. Use it every day, even during April showers. The sun may be hiding behind clouds, but the ultraviolet rays that cause havoc with your skin are still present.
The academy recommends using a sunscreen with "broad-spectrum protection," meaning it is effective against both UVA and UVB rays. And make sure the sun protection factor, or SPF, is 30 or higher.
Labels of some sunscreen products can be confusing, but that is about to change. By June, every sun protection product must say which type of ultraviolet rays it blocks and whether it reduces the risk of skin cancer or merely protects against sunburn.
