I try not to be a nag, but certain behaviors bring out the nag in me. Today I am going to nag you about choosing to keep your skin healthy.
Pretty please tell me that you are not ignoring the serious repercussions of exposing your skin to UVA and UVB radiation. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime?
Melanoma is increasing in the Latino community, but somehow compared to Caucasian women fewer Latina women believe it is important to wear sunscreen daily. There seems to be a misguided belief that darker skinned people are somehow protected from skin cancer. Please know that people with darker skin can and do get skin cancer. Regardless of our skin color, we all need sun protection.
I happen to be on the fairer side and protect myself from the sun in various ways. I’ve never been much of a sun worshipper, I don’t tan on purpose. On hot days, I prefer a shady spot, I wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection; however, I will admit to having had some difficulties applying sunscreen. My difficulties came in the form of an allergy.
I have sensitive skin and find that I am allergic to many things. Unfortunately I am allergic to most sunblock lotions that use chemicals absorbers. Does that mean that I go out into the sun unprotected? Absolutely not! With a little research I found that I could use sunscreen with physical blockers like titanium or zinc oxide.
So what can you do to protect your skin?
- Wear sunscreen daily.
- Do not tan indoors. People who tan indoors just 4 times a year, increase their risk of melanoma by 11%.
- Get educated.
Learn more about how to keep your skin healthy via Neutrogena’s Choose Skin Health™ campaign, where you will find resources, information about self exams, and the opportunity to find a FREE skin cancer screening near you.
I also encourage you to like Choose Skin Health™ on FB. Perhaps, seeing their updates will remind you to take care of your precious skin when I am not around to nag you.
This concludes my nag. That wasn’t so bad was it? Now, go out, have fun, and wear sunscreen.
There is a beautiful sunny world to be enjoyed, but always choose skin health.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in collaboration with Neutrogena and Latina Bloggers Connect. All statements, opinions, and nagging are my own.
On a serious note, can I tell you a secret? I know that dark skin is not immune to sun damage, but every time I think “I should get some spf” my next thought is always “wtf… black people don’t do this! How would I look black as I am trying to buy sun block?”
Oh no, you’re bringing out the nag in me! The risk of skin cancer is lower among African Americans, but it’s also deadliest because many times skin cancer goes unnoticed until it is in its more advanced stages.
Love Trader Joe’s brand for the face, but only SPF 15. I had to step up to SPF 30 since I’ve developed some sun spots, and I’m a morena. Couldn’t find a stronger one that didn’t feel and stay greasy (tried 3 different brands).
Just bought Nuetrogena’s Clear Skin SPF 30 last week. Although it goes on whitish it completely disappears into the skin and there is no greasy feel after a minutes or so. I still put TJ’s around my eyes because it’s so emollient.
I load the kids up on sunscreen before we go out to play.
I am so happy they are making oil free sunscreen. That was always my biggest issue. I’d apply sunscreen only to break out from all the oil. I have oily skin to begin with and it’s a pain in the @**!
I have super-sensitive skin that looks great but is secretly dry. I couldn’t live without moisturizer because, then I’d look like a construction worker with a faint layer of cement. I don’t think I am using sunblock. Eeesh. But I am always wearing a full head helmet when I am out in the sun, thanks to my scooter. When not, I’ve got a scarf on. Hmm. Skin is a serious topic for me. And I am grateful for your nagging. Hugs.
Drinking lots of water keeps the skin hydrated – it is one of the easiest skincare tips.
We also have the practice of a twice-weekly oil massage that really helps. I could go on about foods for the skin, but that’s a whole new post!
Don’t forget about your feet, too. If you wear sandals in the sun, you need to put sunblock on your feet because they get so much exposure.
I agree, you should protect your skin.
I am NOT a good example though, I used to deliberately tan. Nowdays I don’t so much.