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"The experts agree:" One of the best ways to
prevent further skin damage Sunscreen won’t reverse
wrinkles or spots caused by the sun, but when used
consistently, it helps reduce further damage that, if
left unchecked, can lead to more sun-induced symptoms.
Here’s some need-to-know info:
"Rend the label:" Seek out sunscreens that
contain micronized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide or
titanium dioxide. Both of these physical blockers coat
the skin and create a barrier against harmful
ultraviolet A and B rays, both of which are now known to
play a role in sunburn, aging the skin, and skin cancer.
Zinc oxide rubs into the
skin easily, making it more |
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cosmetically pleasing than
titanium dioxide, which may leave a whitish glow. Parsol
1789, a chemical blocker that protects skin by absorbing
UV light, is also a powerful protector, but it may cause
skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Make sure it’s combined with Mexoryl SX, a compound that
keeps it from breaking down in the sun. Or, instead of
Parsol, use a sunblocker containing Mexoryl SX and SPF
15 (SPF stands for Sun Protection Force).
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"Wear it well:" Apply sunscreen to exposed
skin (SPF 15 or higher) year-round. Apply a blocker even
if it’s cloudy or raining. If you use a face moisturizer
with blockers, a teaspoonful will do the job.
“Avoid going outdoors
between ll am and 4 pm,” says the Kaya Skin Clinic’s Dr
Aparna Santhanam. “But if you have to, apply sunscreen
at least 20 minutes before you start and protect
yourself with an umbrella.”
When you’re out in the sun
wearing shorts, a T-shirt or swimwear, use about one
teaspoon for each arm, and two for each leg. |
Not
if they have been appearing gradually. Floaters are harmless,
clumps in the jelly-like vitreous fluid of the eyes, just a bit
thicker and more opaque than the surrounding fluid. When light
enters the eye, these clumps cast a shadow on the retina at the
back of the eye, and you see spots. Often these spots will take
on rather fantastic shapes. Floaters tend to increase with age,
and can also result from injury to the eye, or severe jarring.
They shouldn’t be confused with more stationary spots that may
be signs of developing cataracts, or the radiating “auras” of
light that often accompany migraine headaches.
