Body Sense

SUMMER | 2018

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14 Body Sense Today, sunscreen is a no-brainer. What once may have been an annoying reminder from our mothers to slather on the white stuff is now just plain common sense. But while we all might be using sun protection more religiously, we may not be using it correctly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best sunscreen is the one people will actually wear. For many families, especially those with young children, this often includes stick and spray sunscreens, in addition to lotions. Find the sunscreen you like and use it. But use it correctly. "Sticks are easy for under the eyes and the backs of the hands, while spray sunscreens are often easier to apply on children," says Debra Wattenberg, MD, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. "However, it's important to take precautions when using stick and spray sunscreens to ensure the best protection for you and your family." Regardless of the type of sunscreen (lotion, spray, or stick), Wattenberg says it's important to get a broad-spectrum, water-resistant product that has an SPF of 30 or higher. "Broad spectrum" means that the sunscreen will protect against both types of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin cancer—not just against the ones that cause sunburn. STICK SUNSCREEN APPLICATION For the best protection with stick sunscreen, Wattenberg recommends the following tips. 1. For each area of skin you're protecting, apply four passes back and forth. Doing this will help ensure you're using enough sunscreen to be protected. 2. Rub it in afterward for an even layer of coverage. Do You Use Sunscreen Correctly? It's Not Rocket Science, But It Is Mission-Critical for Skin Health

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