Caddell's Laser & Electrolysis Clinic, Inc.

    May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

    • May 1, 2020

    May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and I thought I’d talk about Sunscreen Basics since sunscreen should be an essential part of your Skin care regimen.

    Daily, year-round application of sunscreen works to prevent two major skin issues: premature skin aging and the risk of skin cancer. Effective sunscreens are labeled broad-spectrum, have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or more and be water resistant. And, of course, sunscreen only works when it’s used – that’s when it works the best.

    The Epionce sunscreens sold at Caddell’s offer broad-spectrum and anti-inflammatory formulas and help ward off signs of aging such as fine line, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation when used consistently and as directed.

    How Sunscreens Help

    • Anti-inflammatory botanical ingredients calm inflammation and redness triggered by UV rays and heat.
    • Broad-spectrum and water resistant.
    • Formulated for any skin type – even sensitive skin.
    • Cosmetically elegant formulas can be used alone or under makeup.

    Sunscreen Application Tips

    Tip #1 When to Apply

    • Sunscreen needs time to bind to the outer layer of the skin for maximum benefit and protection. Apply to cool, dry skin in the morning 15-30 minutes before leaving the house, or before going outdoors for an extended length of time.
    • Applying sunscreen to hot, wet skin will dramatically diminish the effectiveness of the sunscreen.

    Tip #2 How Much to Apply

    • The recommended amount of sunscreen for the face and body is one full ounce, or a shot glass size amount, to all exposed areas of the body.
    • Remember to apply to the entire neck area as well as ears, which are often forgotten and are prime areas for skin cancer and skin aging.

    Tip #3 Always Reapply Sunscreen

    • Next to not applying at all, the biggest mistake with sunscreen is not reapplying. A second layer after the initial 15-30 minutes is ideal, but reapplication should happen at least every two hours.
    • Apply more frequently when sweating, or after swimming and toweling off, making sure the skin has cooled down and is dry before applying more sunscreen.

    Tip #4 Wearing Protective Clothing

    • If you’re going to be outside for long periods of time, wear UPF clothing and wide-brimmed hats, covering exposed areas as much as possible.

    Tip #5 Understand the Label

    According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), sunscreens are considered over-the-counter drugs, and as such a sunscreen label can only make very specific claims.

    These claims are:

    • Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
    • Broad-Spectrum (UVA and UVB protection)
    • Water Resistant

    Making claims on the packaging such as anti-pollution or anti-inflammatory are unregulated drug claims and are in violation of the rules regulating sunscreens.

    Stay safe this summer and protect your skin, you’ll be glad you did! If you need sunscreen Caddell’s carries Elta MD, Epionce​​​​​​ and Suntegrity. Contact us today to stock up before the hot weather is here! You’ll be glad you did!

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