Glow, Don't Toast

by Cheng-Ling Chen — November 15, 2007

I neglected to wear sunblock for my run today. Since it was late afternoon and a cloudy day to boot, I figured it wouldn't matter. When I got home, my neck was a shade darker than my back, and tan lines under my knee caps outlined the hem of my running tights. Spotty marks gave my calves a faux wild look, even more unfortunate than last season's leopard print flats.

Not wearing sunblock, hmmm....not so bright.

While we benefit from some sun exposure, mainly for the vitamin D our bodies need, too much sun can cause skin damage and suppression of the immune system. The sun's invisible but intense ultraviolet rays in high doses can wrinkle, leather, or spot the skin, leading to premature aging, and in serious cases, skin cancer.

Consider these tips and protect your skin from too much sun exposure:

• Pick a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 that works for your skin and use daily. This summer I started using the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55. I like that it is lightweight and provides sun protection without leaving that sticky, oily feeling.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading out, and don't forget about areas like the neck and décolleté.
• If you are outdoors for an extended period, wear a hat.
• Find a lip balm with SPF 15 and use regularly.
• Examine your skin often, and talk to a dermatologist if you notice a new or changing mole.
• Pass it on: natural, healthy skin is in; tanning, outdoor or in, is out.