6. Protect your lips. "Lip protection in the form of sunscreen has been proven to decrease the incidence of lip cancer," says Dr. Kevin Sliwowicz, director of the Toronto Acne Clinic. "One study revealed that the rate of lip cancer in men, who typically do not protect their lips, was seven times higher than in women who applied lipstick with SPF more than once a day (two or three times per day is necessary best)," he advises. "Lip protection will also decrease Herpes cold-sore infections in those for whom breakouts are triggered by UV radiation, and prevent skin breakdown and infections in climate conditions that dehydrate the skin."
7. Check labels. Some products are not effective at blocking UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB and are responsible for cellular damage that results in loss of elasticity and wrinkles. "Look for recognized UVA filters in the sunscreen," says Dr. Marcoux. Those include titanium dioxide, Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) and Mexoryl SX. "The combination of Parsol 1789 and Mexoryl is particularly good," says Marcoux. "Both are photostable molecules (they retain full effectiveness after exposure to the sun) that absorb UVA rays before they can penetrate the skin."
8. Add a hat to the mix. Consider a hat ideally made of dense fabric with a generous brim that protects the neck and chest from UVA/UVB rays. Some hats will be labeled with a helpful UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) number; Dr. Kellett considers them so important that she offers stylish wide-brimmed (five inches in back, six inches in front) UPF-50 hats for post-procedure purchase.
9. Wear sunglasses with broad-spectrum defense. Wrinkles that result from squinting aren't the only things to worry about when it comes to eyes and the sun. "The human lens (in the pupil, behind the iris of the eye) absorbs UV light," explains ophthalmologist Dr. Sheldon Herzig, medical director of Toronto's Herzig Eye Institute. Prolonged exposure to UV can lead to damage to the lens, cornea and retina. "For example, in the tropics, residents tend to develop denser cataracts (cloudy lenses) and at an earlier age than in other climates," says Herzig. "Unfortunately, some sunglasses do not offer UV protection at all. Check labels before you buy." As well, consider wrap-arounds -- UV sneaks in through open sides.
Now go forth and SPF. Scratch that -- SPF and go forth in good health. And share this list with family and friends. After all, wouldn't it be great to hear that the rate of Canadian -- and worldwide -- melanoma cases has dropped drastically?
Page 2 of 2
