Ultraviolet A/ B (UVA/UVB) sun rays cause skin cancer, premature aging, wrinkling and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreens should be used to help protect the skin against UVA/UVB rays.
- Who? Adults and children ≥ 6 months old. You are especially required to follow these instructions if Dr Maya is treating you for age spots, melasma or hyperpigmentation.
- What? Use a sunscreen with UVA/B coverage and SPF(sun protection factor) ≥50
- Skin condition? If your skin is dry, use a cream form of sunscreen. If your skin is oily or if you have acne, use a fluid sunscreen. Sunscreens in the form of sprays are ineffective.
- How? Apply sunscreens uniformly and thickly to all exposed skin surfaces (including the lips), 20 minutes before exposure and every 2 hours while in the sun. If you easily pigment or you are on treatment for melasma or hyperpigmentation, Dr Maya advises you to add extra layers of your sunscreen: first, a broad-spectrum sunscreen then a mineral sunscreen containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide.
- When? Year-round (including winter and on cloudy days). Be extra careful around sand, snow, or water, since these surfaces can reflect the sun's damaging rays and increase your chances of getting a sunburn.
- Where? Store your sunscreen away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Wear when possible a hat/long-sleeved shirt/pants/UV-opaque sunglasses.
- Minimize sun exposure from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, when the sun is at its strongest. If you have pigmentation problems, you have to avoid the sun altogether and avoid direct light as much as possible.
- Avoid solariums because they can damage the skin and eyes as direct sunlight do. If you want to look tan, consider using a self-tanning product.
- Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include supplements.
