As we enter the summer and the weather begins to really heat up, protecting our skin from the sun becomes a top skincare priority. It’s no secret that the Sun’s UV rays can do considerable damage to a person’s skin if the right precautions are not taken. Sunscreen is essential.

But it’s important to remember that all sunscreens are not the same. Different types of sunscreens can offer different benefits and levels of protection. That’s why the skincare experts here at AYA^™ Medical Spa wanted to present this brief guide of what to look for when selecting a sunscreen this summer.

Start at SPF 30

When seeking a new sunscreen, make sure it has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. The higher that number is, the more protected you will be from UV rays and sun damage. SPF 30 is should be the minimum that you consider. The EltaMD^® sunscreens that we offer begin at SPF 30 and extend to SPF 50, which is typically considered the sweet spot.

Make Sure it’s Broad Spectrum

Look out for the words “broad spectrum” when shopping for sunscreens. Broad spectrum means that this product will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Any sunscreen you find will protect against UVB rays, which are associated with sunburns and skin cancers. However, UVA rays are a primary cause of skin damage, premature aging, and other forms of skin cancer as well.

Know Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin, and which types of products and ingredients agree with it, is critical when purchasing any skincare product. Some sunscreens like Revision^® Skincare Multi-Protection SPF 50 can be especially beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin. This is why we provide complimentary skincare analysis appointments to help our patients understand which products and services will be most helpful for their unique complexions.

If you are already feeling the effects of sun damage, we offer several cosmetic treatments that can help refresh your complexion and have your skin looking better than ever before. Depending on your needs, we perform a vast selection of chemical peels, Sciton^® laser treatments, and other services like SilkPeel DermalInfusion^® to help reverse the effects of sun damage. For more information, please contact AYA^™ Medical Spa or visit one of our locations in-person (including our new Dallas, Texas location) today. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more tips, news, and more.