Yes, you already know you need to wear sunscreen when you're exposing your skin to UV rays from the sun, but what is it that you don't know about sun protection? Well, as we know at 8 West Clinic, there are many less known tips you can implement to improve your skin's sun protection and lessen the chances of sun burn and other sun-related skin problems. Here are five effective skin protection tips you've never heard (probably).
1. Eat Tomatoes to Increase your Natural SPF
Scientific research is beginning to prove that the foods you eat can actually effect your skin's natural ability to protect against UV rays. A magical chemical in tomatoes called lycopene increases your skin's natural SPF qualities, guarding against sunburn and other sun-related skin problems. Particularly potent in tomato paste, be sure you're getting plenty of this skin health boosting veggie this summer.
2. Wear a Physical Sunscreen to Avoid Chemicals
There are two types of sunscreens available: physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen. You probably know chemical sunscreens best, which are developed in a lab and use components like cinnamates and oxybenzone which work by absorbing the UV rays. Unfortunately, these chemicals have been linked with hormone disruption and allergies.
Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, use natural elements like zinc or titanium to block and scatter the sun's harmful UV rays, not allowing them to penetrate the skin. Physical sunscreens, like Oclipse Sunscreen by ZO Skin Health, are considered the safer, more effective option.
3. Take a Sun-Protection Supplement
If eating a bunch of tomatoes isn't quite up your alley this summer, there is another effective option: consider taking a sun pill or a heliocare dietary supplement for the skin to boost your natural skin protection qualities.
The key ingredient in these supplements is Polypodium leucotomos, which is a fern extract that helps guard the skin from UV damage. It also decreases redness of the skin after being exposed to the sun.
4. Check your SPF's Expiration Date
You might not realize it, but many of the active ingredients in chemical sunscreens lose there potency over time. Be sure to check the expiration date of your SPF before heading out into the sun. Or, better yet, start with a fresh bottle at the beginning of each summer.
5. Mist your Hairline and Scalp with a Spray Sunscreen
Don't make the common mistake of forgetting about your hairline and scalp when out in the sun. Contrary to popular belief, your hair won't protect against sun damage to your exposed scalp, so use a spray SPF to mist these hard-to-reach places. Of course, you can also wear a hat for the most protection.
Interested in learning more about sun protection for your skin? Book your complimentary skin consultation for your personalized skincare plan today.