by Raven Lebeau

Created on: March 15, 2009   Last Updated: January 30, 2010

Ultra violet light causes damage to the skin whether you're strolling through the parking lot at the mall or out for a hike in the woods. Many people put on sunscreen when they plan to be outdoors all day, but even short periods of sun exposure can add up and cause damage over time. In order to avoid skin cancer as well as to prevent visible signs of aging, applying sunscreen should become a part of your daily routine.

For women who wear make-up or moisturizer, integrating sunscreen into a skin care routine is as easy as switching to a brand of foundation or moisturizer that includes a sunscreen in the formulation. For people who don't currently wear make-up or use a moisturizer, adding sunscreen can become a post-shave or post-toothbrush ritual. Regardless of what other things you do each morning, putting on sunscreen should be on the list of things you always do before heading out the door.

If you do plan to be outdoors for a significant amount of time, it's important to put on sunscreen even on the parts of your body that will be covered by clothing. Clothing will partially block the sun, but it may not be sufficient to stop those harmful rays. It is not at all uncommon to get a sunburn through the fabric of a swimsuit or tee shirt, for example.

For optimal protection, it is best to put on sunscreen at least twenty minutes before sun exposure. Leaving time for the sunscreen to absorb into your skin will give you the maximum protection. That being said, it is also important to reapply sunscreen according to the instructions on the bottle. Some sunscreens last longer than others. Some are waterproof, and some are not.

Make sure to use a sunscreen appropriate to your activity level and the amount of time you plan to spend in the sun. If you plan on running on a hot summer day, be sure to choose a sunscreen that won't run off when you start to sweat! If going swimming outdoors, a waterproof sunscreen is a must.

When driving, note that you can get sunburned through the windows of your car, which only partially block UV rays. Even if you plan on driving all day with not much outside time, it's always smart to apply extra sunscreen before a road trip.

Keeping your skin healthy is an easy way to look and feel your best throughout your life. Wearing sunscreen is a simple, painless way to help keep you in good health and looking your best!

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