...But First Sunscreen!

Here comes the sun! Although summertime is filled with fun in the sun, it’s important that you regularly use sunscreen no matter what age, gender, or race you are. Do you know how to protect yourself from the sun’s rays? What are the long-term effects of too much sun? Read more to find out!

Where did sunscreen come from?

It is commonly thought that sun protection has been a priority for centuries. As to who created the first product, there are multiple answers considered to be true. An Australian chemist, Milton Blake; the founder of L’oreal Cosmetics, Eugene Schueller; an Austrian scientist, Franz Greiter; and a Florida physician, Benjamin Green, have all been considered in one group or another as the original creator.

Sun Statistics

• 0 sunscreens can block 100% of the sun’s rays
• 90% of visible signs of aging are due to sun damage
• Up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin, even on cloudy days 
• Most people on average only apply 25 – 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen
• 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetimes

5 Tips for Sunbathing

1. Use SPF 30 or more with water resistance

2. Apply skin to all skin that is uncovered by clothing.

3. Cover up in sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and pants.

4. Seek shade between the hours of 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. This is when the sun is strongest. 

"It's never too late to protect your skin from further sun damage." - Paolo Giacomoni Head of Research, Clinique

Still not done?

Visit aad.org for more information on sun care!