Skin Care and Sunscreen

Winter is coming to an end, and families are gearing up for spring break, outdoor activities, and summer vacation. The best part of winter coming to an end is that the sun shines brightly and our days last longer. It is just as important to take care of your skin in the winter and keep it moisturized as it is to protect your skin from the sun during the spring and summer if you are outside for long periods of time. Applying sunscreen should be a part of your routine during any season of the year when you may be exposed to the sun for a long time. Sun light is good for you and provides vitamin D so you don't need sunscreen unless you are in the light for long periods of time. Protecting our skin from over exposure to the sun will prevent sun damage, skin cancer, and wrinkles.

Finding the right sunscreen to use can be hard because there are so many different brands, SPFs, scents, and types such as oil, lotion, or gel. Some can cause allergic reactions, may not protect well, feel too greasy or sticky, and some may cause a person's eczema to become very irritated. Other types may be waterproof while some are not. Sunscreen can be made with chemicals that can leave your skin feeling dry or cause a skin rash. It is also common for sunscreen to be mixed in with a woman's foundation or cover up.

Sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15 should be applied on your arms and face both in the winter and summer if you are exposed to the sun for hours on end. If you are in the sun for a long period of time, it is important to reapply every three to four hours if you have fair skin. One application in the morning may not be enough to protect you throughout the day, depending on your skin type, if you are in direct sunlight at a sporting event or on the beach for example.

If you are prone to getting rashes from lotions or creams, you should use hypoallergenic sunscreen that is natural and chemical free. There are natural sunblocks that are made for people who have eczema or very sensitive skin. If you do have a flare up after applying, you can treat the irritation with eczema oil or lotion. It is especially important to use hypoallergenic lotions on babies because their skin is so sensitive. You may need to try out different organic hypoallergenic brands before you get the right one. Unfortunately, you may experience an eczema flare up or skin rash if the brand you use doesn't agree with your skin type.

If you are having problems finding a sun block that won't irritate your skin, be sure to have some protection from the UV rays such as a hat. The sun can be good for eczema, but you shouldn't overexpose yourself or stay out in the direct light for long periods of time. Wearing sunscreen and protecting your skin will keep it healthy and looking great. Sun light provides vitamin D that isn't naturally made in our bodies. Sun light is good for you and healthy, but it should also be balanced in your life. Over exposure can damage your skin. However, being responsible and spending some time in the summer light will make you healthy and provide vitamin D.