Balancing Summer Fun with Sun Safety

The Doctor is In … Practicing What I Preach Dr. Katie Rodan | July 12, 2011 at 3:51 pm | Categories: The Doctor is In | URL: http://wp.me/pMnJi-pl

By Dr. Katie Rodan

Being a dermatologist is more than a day job. Sometimes I can’t help but feel compelled to be the constant voice of caution with friends, family or even strangers on the street. But at the same time, I am the first to head out for a long hike on Saturdays, opt for a bike ride with my family, or meet friends at an outdoor café for lunch.

I realize the grave importance of practicing safe sun, but I’m also not willing to give up my summers and hide indoors. The reality is, that, as with anything else in life, balance is the healthiest option. Taking back summer to me, is finding that precious balance between protecting my skin and enjoying summer outdoor activities. I make it all happen by following these three simple strategies:

1) Plan: I start each week by looking at my calendar, trying to note which events I’m looking most forward to, what I’m obligated to attend, and what I have some leeway with.

2) Prioritize: For each event that’s heavy on the outdoor/sun time and not set in stone, I try to search for alternatives. Whether it’s having lunch indoors after going out on a hike, or trying to move my weekend bike ride to the late afternoon (sleeping in on Saturdays is a must for me!), I try to limit myself to one high sun exposure activity per day.

3) Protect: No matter whether life takes me to the golf course, the office or the car, I never leave home without my sunscreen armor. I opt for a cosmetically elegant SPF 30 sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Even better are sunscreens that include peptides for double-duty sun protection and anti-aging benefits. Whenever possible I throw on a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses for additional protection.

It is possible to take back the summer you love and stay safe and healthy. As you enjoy the summer, remember, you can do it all. Just don't do it all at once and find alternatives that give you the most bang for your summer buck.

Posted via email from Beautiful Skin with Rodan+Fields