Sunscreen is something that we should all be thinking about every day, regardless of the time of year. After all, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting 1 in 5 adults. The No. 1 thing we can do to protect our skin from cancer is to use sunscreen every time we're in the sun — not just in the summer. And the bottles currently on our shelves? Olay Complete All Day Moisturizers With SPF for Sensitive Skin.
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"In the summer, we're closer to the sun," Dr. William Wooden, director of operative services at Indiana University Health says. "However, the sun never stops emitting UV radiation, which is what causes the damage. It is always there, all year-round." As such, sunscreen application should be a part of your beauty routine, regardless of the temperature or time of year. "Any time you're spending time in the sun, no matter the season, remember sunscreen," he says.
Here are Wooden's tips for keeping your skin safe from harmful UV rays all year-round.
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During summer and in hot climates
"In the summer, we often spend time at the beach and have moist, warm air and reflection of UV rays from the water and sand," Wooden says. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 to 30 will give good protection, but it needs to be reapplied regularly. "It’s important to remember to put on enough, and keep in mind that activity, water and sweat can remove the sunscreen," he says.
During fall and in cool climates
As fall arrives and the weather cools down, UV rays can be damaging your skin any time the sun comes out. If you're spending time outdoors, Wooden suggests reaching for SPF 15 to 30.
During winter and in cold climates
"In the winter, we have dry, cold air and a strong reflection of rays if there is snow," Wooden says, adding that for skiers, "elevation also plays a role in high elevation areas the UV exposure is higher." He recommends sticking with an SPF of 15 to 30, but adding in a moisturizer to help with the drying effects cold air can have on skin.
During spring and in warm climates
When warm weather first starts, "we have more skin exposed and are more at risk," Wooden says. Sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 to 30 should be applied at least once daily.
Forget the myth that sunscreen is only for summer, and protect your skin all year long.
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This post was sponsored by Olay.