Skin Care Guide

The Best Results

For best results in the sun:

• apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure with careful attention to the face, hands, and arms

• apply lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher to protect sun-sensitive lips

• avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when its rays are strongest

• wear large-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your scalp and eyes

• reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, but you should apply it more frequently if you have been swimming or sweating

• wear natural cotton clothes instead of synthetic fibre clothes because natural fibre clothes have a higher SPF factor

• get in the shade whenever you can

• be aware of the time you spend in the sun so you can limit it

However, remember that sunlight isn't entirely bad. A beneficial effect of sun exposure is the body's natural production of vitamin D. An average adult requires 400 IU of vitamin D daily. Many women find that sunlight is an important component to good mental health, so don't forsake the sun altogether. On the other hand, any tan is a bad tan (except when you use a topical bronzing cream). The amount of sunlight needed to get the beneficial results is minimal: less than 15 minutes a day. In addition, some healthcare professional believe that today's vitamin-enriched dairy products provide plenty of what you need.