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5 Tips for Applying Sunscreen

FitSugar — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700

We all know the importance of applying sunscreen, especially since skin cancer rates are rising among young women. Putting on sunscreen improperly can render an effective sunscreen ineffective. In the future, use these five tips from WebMD on how to apply sunscreen properly:

Apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before being in the sun (for best results) so that it can be absorbed by the skin and less likely to wash off when you perspire.
Shake well before use to mix particles that might be clumped up in the container. Consider using the new spray-on or stick types of sunscreen.
Be sure to apply enough sunscreen. As a rule of thumb, use an ounce (a handful) to cover your entire body.
Use on all parts of your skin exposed to the sun, including the ears, back, shoulders, and the back of the knees and legs.
Apply thickly and thoroughly.

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Review: Hawaiian Island Creation Suncare SPF 50

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:00:00 -0700

If you're planning on swimming and sweating in the Summer sun, then you need to make sure your sunscreen that is up to the task of protecting you in those harsh conditions. I think I have found the ultimate sunscreen for the job. Hawaiian Island Creation SPF 50 Sunscreen ($11.99) is waterproof, sweatproof, and kept me from burning during my very sunny, very hot first sprint distance triathlon. Created by a biochemist who just happens to be an avid surfer, this sunscreen stays put in adverse conditions – it won't run into your eyes.

Virtually odorless, HIC sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It also doesn't feel greasy and won't affect your grip or make you slip. It is, however, not considered noncomedogenic. But a clogged pore is fleeting and a wrinkle is forever.

Pick up some HIC at DrugStore.com before you head to the beach.

Will Last Summer's Sunscreen Protect Your Skin?

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:30:00 -0700

I'm sure you have a few bottles of sunscreen lying around from last Summer. Will they still protect your skin even though they're a year old?

Sunscreen can last up to three years if it was stored in a cool, dry place, with the cap tightly closed. If it wasn't, then it should be thrown out. Extreme heat can cause the active ingredients to deteriorate, so they'll be less effective at protecting you from the sun's harmful rays. If you're not sure, it's best to pick up a new bottle.

You can also check the sunscreen's expiration date. If it hasn't expired yet, check the lotion's consistency. If it is runny, gloppy, or smells weird, it has probably gone bad, and you should spring for some new sunscreen. It's really not worth saving money if your skin's health is compromised, right?

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Which SPF Do You Regularly Wear?

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 04:30:00 -0700

Summer always reminds us to lather up the sunscreen. In the colder months, I wear SPF 30 on my face every day, but in the Summer I wear it all over my body. I know I am not the only one covering up with sunscreen right now, but which SPF do you generally use?Source

What Should You Look for When Buying Sunscreen?

FitSugar — Mon, 19 May 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Hopefully you're stocking up on sunscreen for the sunny season ahead. Aside from avoiding the sun entirely, it is your best defense against skin cancer. The Mayo Clinic has a list of recommendations for what to look for when buying sunscreen and here are the highlights.

Select a sunscreen that says broad spectrum on the bottle. These provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
It should have an SPF of 15 or higher. Remember that sunscreens with an SPF of 45 or higher don't allow you to stay out longer. You still need to reapply every two hours.
Make sure the label says that it contains sunscreen. Some lotions and tanning oils don't, so they'll offer no protection from the sun's harmful rays.
In the list of ingredients, it should say one these: oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, avobenzone (Parsol 1789), ecamsule, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
If you have sensitive skin, choose one that is free of fragrance, dyes, and preservatives.
If you spend time in the water, choose one that is water-resistant. If you exercise outside, select one that is sweatproof.

Remember, when applying your well researched sunscreen be sure to use enough. It takes about a shot glass worth of sunscreen to cover your entire body.
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Fit Tip: Pick Up Some Sweatproof Sunscreen

FitSugar — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:00:00 -0700

Exercising outdoors might be great for your psyche, but it's not so good for your skin. Even if you're only out for a 30-minute bike ride, you need to wear sunscreen. Your daily moisturizer with SPF just isn't going to cut it though, since the heat of the sun and all your hard work will make you sweat. The lotion may end up running into your eyes, plus all that sweating will also make your sunscreen less effective. So pick up some sweat-proof sunscreen.

Whichever sunscreen you choose, make sure it says that it's sweat proof or sweat-resistant on the label. If you worry about breaking out, look for one that also says "non-comedogenic." Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you head out, and if you're planning on being out for longer than two hours, bring some sunscreen along so you can reapply as needed.

SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 45: Seriously, What's the Diff?

FitSugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 03:00:00 -0700

The snow is gone and Spring is finally here. The warmth of the sun may feel sweet on your skin, but do remember that those rays can cause premature skin aging and skin cancer. Thank goodness for sunscreen! Shopping for protection from the sun can be more than a bit confusing with SPF ratings that range from 2 to 60.

For starters, SPF stands for sun protection factor, but the numbers don't refer to how long you can spend outside without getting a sunburn, they refer to the amount of UVB protection the product offers. UVB rays were once thought to be the sole type of sun ray that caused skin cancer. Sunscreens with SPF 15 filter out 93 percent of UVB rays; SPF 30 filters out 97 percent. The thing is, wearing a sunscreen with a higher number, such as SPF 45, won't allow you to stay out longer, since the effectiveness of sunscreen decreases over time. Plus if you're active, either swimming or sweating in the sun, the moisture can wash sunscreen away, leaving your skin less protected. So it's a good idea to reapply sunscreen every two hours, just to be sure. Don't wait to see if your skin is turning red before reapplying since a sunburn may take up to 24 hours to appear fully.

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Tanning Beds Are Still Unsafe

FitSugar — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:30:00 -0700

In the past week I have had two acquaintances tell me that they were going to tanning beds — one was prepping for a wedding and the other for a trip in May. Both of them figured that it was better to have a base tan for any tanning they'd be doing in the near future. Clearly, being FitSugar, I was horrified, so I decided it was time to revisit the topic.

Plain and simply, research suggests that people who start using sunbeds under the age of 35 increase their risk of malignant melanoma (skin cancer) by 75 percent. The idea that tanning beds provide a safe base tan is a complete misconception because the intensity of some UV rays from sunbeds can be as much as 15 times higher than that of the midday sun. That doesn't sound safe at all, does it?

The bottom line. Don't use tanning beds. If you're preparing for Spring Break or an upcoming event, don't plan how you're going to get your base tan (unless it's a fake one). Plan on bringing a lot of sunscreen (at least SPF 30) and taking action to protect your skin from the sun.

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Minutes to a Healthier You . . .

FitSugar — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:45:00 -0700

It's not always the hours you put in at the gym that keep you healthy, the little things help too!

Next time you find yourself in the sun, take just five seconds to check out your shadow. If your shadow is shorter than you are, then that means the sun's rays are very intense. Especially since we tend to spend more time outdoors in the Spring and Summer, you may want to seek shade or get indoors to apply more sunscreen and wait until the sun is less intense.

Be sure to check out all my quick health tips.

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Coming Soon: K2 Sunblock Can Do!

FitSugar — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 02:00:00 -0800

When you are being sporty at high altitudes, in temperatures below freezing, or some combination of both, it is easy to forget to wear sunscreen. Winter sun is just as harsh as summer sun, if not more.
This last weekend, I slathered my family's cheeks and noses with sunscreen made by snow sport equipment manufacturer K2, even though I'm a Rossignol gal myself. The K2 Endurance Sun Block is great for the mountains, and will be perfect for Spring skiing when the sun is super bright – here's hoping for a long ski season this year.

The conditions for my latest ski weekend were windy and bright on the mountain, but we stayed burn free. And the sunblock didn't slide into anyone's eyes, which is a major plus when you are dealing with little kids. I like this sunblock because it blocks both UVA and UVB rays, which is great. Plus it contains moisturizers, so I didn't get chapped cheeks from the wind either. I always go for the biggest number on SPF, so the family was sporting SPF 50. The sunblock lotion is sweatproof and waterproof. It is not greasy and didn't compromise my skin blemish wise.

The K2 sunblock will retail for about $11 and should be available online at drugstore.com in a matter of weeks.

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Winter Sunscreen from Himaya

FitSugar — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 02:30:00 -0800

It may be cold outside, but the sun is still blazing. That means if you enjoy spending time outside in the winter, you shouldn't forget to protect your skin (what little is exposed anyway).

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the US, and more than 90 percent of cases are caused by sun exposure. A person's risk for skin cancer doubles if they've had five or more sunburns, so applying sunscreen everyday is a simple way to protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays.

If you enjoy winter sports and playing in the snow, you may need a little extra protection. Himaya makes a cold weather sunscreen in SPF 15 or SPF 30 ($9.95). It contains no alcohol, no perfumes, is hypoallergenic, and specifically designed to moisturize and protect skin in colder temperatures. It'll keep your skin hydrated and protect it from wind chill and frost bite. So be sure to lube up before you bundle up.

Three Minutes to a Healthier You

FitSugar — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 02:30:00 -0800

Sun damage can lead to leathery, wrinkly skin, blotchy pigmentation and even skin cancer. Your best protection is a UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher applied daily, even during winter. All it takes is about three minutes each morning to ward off sun damage.

Apply sunscreen all over your body (two minutes)
Let dry (one minute)

Source

Sunscreen and Breast Cancer Risk

FitSugar — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 03:30:00 -0700

I have heard rumors lately that sunscreen can cause breast cancer. Sounds frightening doesn't it? Our tried and true enemy against skin cancer and wrinkling may be an enemy itself? Well, it doesn't seem to be true, but the answer is a little bit more complicated.

Here's the deal: some ultraviolet (UV) filters used in sunscreen may mimic estrogen according to animal and laboratory studies and thereby disrupt the endocrine system. Just to review a little human biology, the endocrine system uses hormones to regulate functions like metabolism, growth and development. However, there is no evidence that human exposure to these types of endocrine disruptors in the low levels used in sunscreen create health problems. In fact, a study using human volunteers found that even though UV filters were absorbed by the skin, they had no effect on the volunteers over all health or hormone levels, even estrogen.

Hopefully more research will be done on this matter. In the mean time, if you are concerned about messing with your endocrine system look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (these block the UV rays rather than filter them), since these ingredients are not absorbed by your skin and they don't mimic estrogen.

Source

Count Your Stars: Four Star Sunscreen

FitSugar — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:30:00 -0700

The FDA hopes drugstores will soon be serving up 4 star sunscreen.

In a move to help consumers select a wide spectrum sunscreen, the FDA has proposed a star ranking system to indicate how effective a sun protection product is at blocking UVA rays. The SPF ratings are only for UVB rays, the sun rays that tend to burn your skin, but UVA rays, considered the tanning rays, are just as dangerous to your skin.

If the FDA proposal becomes final, sunscreen products would list both the SPF alongside a new four-star rating system, with one star representing the lowest protection and four stars the highest. Additionally, if the sunscreen leaves you completely defenseless against the sun's UVA rays, the label will explicitly state "no UVA protection" on the front label of the product.

We could start seeing the four star system as early as next spring.

Source

What's the Deal With: PA +++ Rankings on Sunscreen

FitSugar — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 02:00:00 -0700

By now, I hope you all know the SPF stands for sun protection factor. A few sunscreen labels also list a "PA" ranking, like this Shiseido sunscreen pictured. PA ranking refers to the amount of protection the sunscreen offers from the UVA rays, since SPF just ranks protection from UVB rays.

PA rankings are listed as PA+, PA++ or PA+++ with the more plus symbols the more protection from UVA rays, the rays that may cause long term skin damage and therefore age the skin.

Always look for a broad spectrum sunscreen as they will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.

You can find the Shiseido sunscreen, rated SPF 55 P+++, for $37 from Sephora.

T/F: Suncreen and Sunblock are The Same.

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:45:00 -0700

During these last days of summer, it's still important to make sure to apply sunscreen on a daily basis. Or should you be applying sunblock? Or are they the same? Take the quiz to test your knowledge.

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Protect Your Lips From the Sun

FitSugar — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 10:51:46 -0700

When you go outside to enjoy the warmth and sunshine, you've got to protect your lips from the sun's harmful rays. That skin can get sunburned too, and excessive exposure could cause lip cancer.

Just as you apply sunscreen to your skin, you need to apply sunscreen to your lips. Many lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip balms contain SPF, so check those labels ladies.

Here's a list of some of my favorite protective lip balms and lipsticks. Beeswax lip balm from Burt's Bees is still my all time favorite even though it doesn't contain any SPF, so I just reserve it for nighttime use if my lips feel dry after spending a day in the sun.

Sunscreen Stats

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 10:15:00 -0700

Just to see if you all have been paying attention, I have a few questions about sunscreen for you. It is kind of like a "pop" quiz, but really it is a Fit quiz.

Source

Do you wear sunscreen daily?

FitSugar — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:30:00 -0700

We all know we are supposed to apply sunscreen early and often, but do we? That is what I want to know...

Do you wear sunscreen daily?

Yes! I put it on every morning.

Yes! I put it on every morning and more when I know I will be in the sun for a while.

No - I only apply it when I am wearing my swimsuit.

No -- Though I probably should.

Other. Tell me below.

Look For It: Mexoryl SX

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Sunscreen has been in the news a lot lately. Labeling and SPF ratings are confusing. Just to add to the pot, I have a new ingredient for you to search out when it comes to sunscreen - Mexoryl SX.

Although mexoryl, aka ecamsule, has been used in European sunscreens since the early 90's, the FDA just recently approved it for use in the States. Mexoryl is an organic filter that protects against UVA rays!!!! Making it a key ingredient for wide spectrum sunscreens - remember the SPF ratings are just for UVB rays. In fact, mexoryl is the best thing on the market for blocking UVA rays and it lasts longer than other UVA blockers.

Look for L'Oreal's Anthelios SX and Laroche-Posay Anthelios which is considered one of the best broad spectrum sunscreens on the market today.

Get in Gear: Personal UV Monitor

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 02:30:00 -0700

There are two ways in which a lot of us don't get the most out of our sunscreen: We don't apply enough and we don't apply often enough. For the first problem, you should apply at least an ounce of sunscreen. For the second issue? Well, you should apply sunscreen at least every two hours of being in the sun.

Problem is that oftentimes I am usually doing so many things (gabbing with my friends, running after my girls, swimming laps, etc.) while I am outside, that I often forget when I need to reapply. The Personal UV Monitor ($29.95) from Oregon Scientific is just what I need. After programming in your skin type and your sunscreen's SPF level, this genius little device will alarm when you've hit your limit in the sun. The coolest part? The exposure time automatically updates with changes in UV intensity. While you may not be paying any attention to the time, it's good to know that something's got your back -- So strap it onto your bag or belt loop (or anywhere really). Cool right? You can buy one from OregonScientific.com.

5 Ways to Help Prevent Skin Cancer

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 17:15:00 -0700

I don't know about you, but since skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the U.S., I want to do all I can to protect myself. 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and more than 90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. Here are some ways to help protect yourself.

Avoid sun exposure from at least 11 am to 2 pm, when the sun's UV rays are the strongest. If you can, I would avoid the rays from 10 am to 3 pm.
Wear sunscreen when you go outside - even if it's cloudy or cold out. Getting a sunburn is not only painful, but a person's risk for skin cancer doubles if he or she has had 5 or more sunburns.
Create you own shade with an umbrella, sun hat, and a lightweight long-sleeved shirt and pants.
Do I even need to tell you to avoid tanning salons? Use a self-tanner instead.
Check your moles regularly. If one seems like it's changing shape or color - get it checked out by a dermatologist ASAP.

Source

You Asked: Sunscreen for Sports

FitSugar — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 10:15:00 -0700

Dear FitSugar,

I am a fair skinned girl who really enjoys her outdoor sports. I also am a
very sweaty fair skinned girl and have noticed that most sunscreens do not
keep up with me. I apply at least 30 minutes before going outside but
still often end up with a mild burn.

Can you recommend a sunscreen with real lasting strength? I love a tan
but I love my skin more.

Ahhhh....a fair skinned athlete after my own heart - she "loves her skin more" than a tan. Well for this scenario, I highly recommend Water Babies by Coppertone.

I discovered this sunscreen in my quest for a sunscreen for my two fair skinned, active daughters. It is a broad spectrum sunscreen, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays, plus it is SPF 50. Since the lotion was formulated for kids it is hypoallergenic, gentle and moisturizing. It is also PABA free (one of the chemicals you want to avoid). Plus it provides instant waterproof protection.

It is thick and can be difficult to rub in completely, so it leaves a little white aura about your skin, but the sunscreen stays put long periods of time. I would not, however, use this sunscreen on my face since it is not labeled "non comedogenic" so it will clog your pores. I am just really particular about what I put on my face. Water Babies can also sting your eyes so I like to just steer clear of that area.

Look for it at you local drugstore or buy it online from DrugStore.com for $8.49 for an 8 ounce bottle.

Must Have This Summer: Sun Protection Wipes

FitSugar — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 02:30:00 -0700

Unless it is a child, it is always funny to me when someone refuses to wear sunscreen because of the way it feels on their skin, since I am sure skin cancer and wrinkles feel much worse.

The clever folks over at Shady Day have realized this problem and have created Daily Sun Protection Wipes that offer broad spectrum UV protection (avobenzone) with no artificial ingredients or synthetic fragrances. These convenient little pre-moistened sunscreen wipes are designed for the entire body with an absorbent formula leaving the skin feeling dry and smooth (i.e. great for kids and everyone else who hates the greasy feel of sunscreen on their skin). Along with the sun protection they have added antioxidant protection, with vitamins E and A, mango fruit extract, cactus flower extract and organic Aloe Vera. This means they smell really nice as well, and while I love the smell of coconut just as much as the next guy, the scent doesn't always work for daily use. What's more? The line also has just been updated with a new formulation that is water resistant and paraben free, making it great for families with kids, for outdoor exercisers or for anyone looking for protection from the sun.

I desperately wish I had these on my last trip to Hawaii, the one where my sunscreen exploded in my suitcase leaving me to pay $20 a shirt to get all my belongings laundered at the hotel. What's even better is that if you're like my husband, and despise checking-in a bag on the airplane, these wipes are one of the only sunscreen products that you can carry-on on an airplane, given fun liquid limitations and all. How cool is that?

Buy some directly from ShadyDayInc.com (a pack of 5 individual wipes cost $10.00 and a pack of 15 wipes cost $14.00).

Alba: Sunscreen That Actually Smells Good

FitSugar — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Since my sunscreen from last year expired, I had to pick up another bottle. I happened to be at the health food store and saw the Alba Sunscreen on sale, so it peaked my interest. I'm not a huge fan of how sunscreen usually smells, but when I took a whiff, it actually smelled wonderful. It had a light, refreshing, floral scent, which must have been from the lavender, chamomile, and calendula I saw in the list of ingredients.

I bought some of the Green Tea SPF 30, which is part of their Hawaiian line, made from tropical botanicals, green tea antioxidants, and aloe vera. It's perfect for wearing everyday - not greasy at all, and soaked instantly into my skin, leaving it soft and smelling sweet. You can even go in the water with it on, and it'll keep protecting you for up to 40 minutes.

It worked perfectly while in the sun for 3 hours, and my skin felt soft all day. I'd definitely pick some of this up if you're looking for a new sunscreen that smells great and is also paraben and cruelty-free. Look for it in the beauty section of your health food store or you can order it online from Alternative Outfitters for $8.95.

Fit's Tips: Remember to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before heading outside, and reapply it every 2 hours.

How to Ease the Pain of Sunburn

FitSugar — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Sunburned? You don't need me or anyone else reminding you that you should have worn sunscreen - your screaming red skin is reminder enough! So what can you do to ease the pain and speed up the healing? Here are some tips:

Take a cool shower and gently lather up with a moisturizing soap.
As soon as you get out of the shower, while your skin is still damp, rub aloe all over your sunburn. The store-bought gel works well (I keep mine in the fridge), but if you have an aloe plant, that'll work better. Just break off a stalk, peel one side of the skin off and rub it all over the affected area. You can save the leftover stalk wrapped in a plastic baggie in the fridge. If you don't have aloe, rub regular lotion all over your skin.

There's more tips so

Will Last Year's Sunscreen Still Protect Me?

FitSugar — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Now that you know how important it is to wear sunscreen when you go outside (even on cloudy days), you may be thinking about the bottles you have from last year. Are they still good or do you have to shell out more money and buy new ones?

Here's the deal. Sunscreen supposedly can last up to 3 years, but if it wasn't stored in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed, it should be tossed out. The active ingredients in sunscreen can deteriorate and lose effectiveness if exposed to high temperatures, so if you're not sure, I'd spring for some new bottles. How many times have you left the bottle to bake in the car while you were out hiking?

Your old sunscreen bottles should have expiration dates. If they haven't expired yet, you should check out the consistency. If it has changed or looks discolored, is lumpy, or smells funky - ditch it and buy some new sunscreen. I'd opt for skin safety over saving a few bucks. It is probably more economical in the long run.

Source

Sunburn For A Sun Tan?

FitSugar — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 12:30:00 -0700

As a teenager, I refused to put on sunscreen because I wanted to work on my tan. I'd always get a really bad burn when I went out in the sun for the first time, and then after that, my skin would turn golden.

So I want to know if you think the following statement is true or false.

Source

Sunscreen - How Often Should You Apply

FitSugar — Thu, 31 May 2007 13:30:00 -0700

Today, May 31st, is the final day of Skin Cancer Awareness Month. In light of that fact, I thought I should give a little quiz on sunscreen. You know I love the stuff!!!

So do you know...

Don't Let Your SPF 30 Turn into SPF 20

FitSugar — Tue, 15 May 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Did you know that if applied incorrectly, an SPF 30 sunscreen is actually SPF 20?

SPF 30 sunscreen may provide significantly less protection when not enough is used. To get the most out of your sunscreen, use one ounce, enough to fill a shot glass (or your palm). This is the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body (arms, legs, neck and face of the average adult) properly. So stock up, use it liberally and reapply often (especially after you towel off).

T/F: SPF 30 has two times more sun protection than SPF 15?

FitSugar — Mon, 07 May 2007 14:30:00 -0700

Today is National Skin Cancer Awareness Day and so I thought it would be fun to see how aware you are with a short pop quiz on sun protection.

Sunscreen in Soaps, Washes and Cleansers: Oh My!

FitSugar — Fri, 04 May 2007 03:00:00 -0700

The latest trend in sunscreen this summer is a new technology called Wash On that integrates sunscreen into soaps, facial cleansers, body washes and shampoos. This way, it's integrated into your routine rather than adding another step.

Wash On is intended for use against daily, incidental exposure to the sun, such as that gained from commuting or running errands. Seems like it would wash off but the way it works is with a water-proof broad-spectrum sun protection built in to the cleansers and soaps. Right now you can get the technology in Freeze 24/7's Ice Shield Facial Cleanser with Sunscreen ($48.00, SPF 12-29). I know it seems pricey, but remember it is your health we're talking about here and if you're one of those people that just forgets to add the sunscreen step, this is a great option to keep skin cancer away. So get the face wash from DermStore.com. Also, By142 has a SPF 15 body wash that is soon to be available, but you can pre-order it now at by142.com.

Keep in mind that the makers recommend for periods of prolonged and intense sun exposure, such as going on a long jog/hike or going to the beach, traditional sunscreen be used. Look for sunscreen to be built into almost everything in the future, which in my opinion, is a very good idea. Gotten screened yet for skin cancer? Get your FREE screening done today!

Get the Bod: Evangeline Lilly

FitSugar — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:45:00 -0700

Not only am I addicted to LOST, but seeing all those toned and sun-kissed bodies really inspires me to workout and eat healthy (so I can look that good in my bikini this summer).

Evangeline Lilly (Kate, the adorable brunette) always looks amazing - I love her tousled hair, her golden skin, and her tough as nails body (not to mention attitude - I wouldn't mess with her!).

What does she do to look that good? She may be on a deserted island, but she told Self.com that she knows the dangers the sun can have on her skin. She's all about the bronzers and self-tanners - much healthier than baking in the sun - and she always wears sunscreen to save her skin's future.

Was she born with that strong and lean body? Are you kidding? She's obsessed with eating healthy and exercise is part of her life - she loves walking or riding her bike instead of driving.

Want to know her #1 health tip? Then

The Skinny On: SPF and Sunscreen Ratings

FitSugar — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 11:00:00 -0700

Slowly and surely the seasons change, bringing less snow or rain and more sun. Yipee!!! But with more sunshine comes the risk of sun damage that can cause premature aging of the skin and skin cancer risk (we have to take the good with the bad, I'm afraid). We are fortunate to have sunscreen. I want to clear up a few questions about sunscreen though. Like what does SPF mean?

Well it stands for sun protection factor which seems simple enough. The number that follows usually a 15 or 30 represents the amount of UVB protection the lotion provides. The higher the number the more the sunscreen provides. There is currently no standard measurement for UVA protection. Just to remind you that UVB rays do not pass through windows, but are the sun rays that cause skin cancer. UVA rays do pass through windows and are more responsible for aging the skin.

An SPF rating of 15 means the sunscreen blocks out 93% of the UVB rays and SPF 30 blocks out 97% of those same rays. So wearing SPF 30 doesn't mean you can stay in the sun twice as long. Always look for a suncreen that is "wide spectrum" since it will block both types of rays.

Have fun in the sun!!!!

Source

Spring Skiing and Riding

FitSugar — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 14:30:00 -0700

I know snow is a weird topic to bring up now, but in certain parts of the world, spring hasn't quite sprung. Many of the mountains are still covered in snow, so this weekend might be the last time to snap on your skis or board and hit the slopes.

For some, spring skiing and riding is better than winter skiing because there has been tons of snowfall, the skies are clearer, and the air is warmer. There's nothing more exhilarating than flying down the mountain in a t-shirt.

Here are some tips to keep you safe and happy:

Get some spring clothes. I know this seems obvious, but if you wear your heavy winter coat, snowpants, mittens, and base layers, you'll overheat and sweat profusely. This will make your clothes wet, and that will inevitably make you cold and uncomfortable.

Get yourself a lightweight waterproof jacket to wear over a thin fleece jacket and short-sleeved wicking shirt. You can probably ditch the base layers altogether, and some people just wear lightweight mudpants instead of bulky snowpants.

If you have glove liners, you can use them, or get yourself some lightweight mittens. Also, get yourself a cute spring hat - no need for one that's fleece-lined.

Want to hear the other tips? Then

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen - It Is What You Want

FitSugar — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 02:00:00 -0700

Recently I quizzed you all on the differences between UVA and UVB rays, but knowing the difference isn't enough to protect your from the sun's harmful rays. Nope...you need sunscreen and broad spectrum sunscreen at that. When you are buying your first bottle or tube of sunscreen this season, read the label and make sure it says that it protects from both types of rays - that it is Broad Spectrum.

The Mayo Clinic recommends that your sunscreen contain at least one of the following ingredients: oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, avobenzone (Parsol 1789), ecamsule, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. The first four ingredients are chemicals that absorb the sun's rays before they can penetrate the skin. The final two ingredients physically block the sun's rays so they cannot penetrate your skin.

Fit's Tip: Remember to apply sunscreen regularly if you are outside for a long period of time especially in high humidity, sweating, or swimming.

Double Chin Trouble

FitSugar — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 03:17:58 -0800

Are worries over a double chin bringing you down?

I wish more than anything that I could tell you there is a simple work out to tone up your chin but unfortunately fat is fat (no matter where it is). The only way to get rid of fat is with a total-body weight-loss program (eating healthy and working out), which can help you lose some fat in your neck and face.

More than fat, the bigger threats to a firm, youthful chin are gravity, sun exposure, smoking, genetics and the passage of time.

Trust me, if there were such a work out, I'd be spreading the info like wildfire but there's not. I hate to sound like a broken record, but the best way to have a toned chin for now is: Don't smoke, wear sunscreen and try to maintain a healthy weight.

Yikes! Wrinkle Creams Don't Really Work

FitSugar — Wed, 13 Dec 2006 16:30:00 -0800

I consider myself a wrinkle cream agnostic - I am not sure they work, but in case they do I want to be using them.

Well my agnostic bubble has burst. I just read a devastating report on CNN that wrinkle creams are utterly ineffective. The price doesn't matter, cheap or expensive, the best performers only reduced wrinkles by about 10 percent - and that 10 percent change is not visible to the naked eye. In essence, you would have to squint your eyes to try to see the change, and thereby make even more wrinkles.

So gals, it looks like sunscreen is going to be your new best friend. Apply it religiously. Wear hats! Quit smoking since it interferes with the skin's ability to generate new cells. Drink more water - that is what my dermatologist recommended to me.

If they can put a man on the moon, I think they should be able to come up with wrinkle cream that has a better than 10 percent return. Don't you?

Even Though It's Cold Out...

FitSugar — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 10:15:00 -0800

I don't want to be a downer, but I just read that according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, nearly 77% of people are not using sunscreen regularly.

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and is primarily caused by sun exposure. Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, has slowly become the most common cancer type in women ages 25-29.

Just because it's cold out, doesn't mean you're safe from the sun. If you're the kind of person who lives for winter sports, you need a sunscreen that will be sweatproof, waterproof and last as long as you're out, so you don't have to bother with re-applying.

Himaya was started by 2 major snowboarders (one who created Duotone Snowboards, and one who was VP of sales for Burton Snowboards) so you know it works.

Their products are hypoallergenic and not tested on animals. They contain Vitamins E and C to replace nutrients that are lost during sun exposure. They're meant to be worn and forgotten about so you can focus on having fun outside.

Fit's Tip: Himaya makes a Cold Protection SPF 30 sunscreen to protect your skin against wind chill.