It’s spring, and that means not only warmer temperatures but also more time spent outdoors. And with summer quickly approaching, an increasing number of people will be spending more of their time outside and exposed to the sun’s rays. That’s why it’s crucial that you apply sunscreen to all exposed skin every time you head outdoors, even if that’s a habit that’s fallen by the wayside during the winter when you spent much of your time indoors or bundled up head to toe any time you did venture out. Read on to learn more about the importance of sunscreen and how to use it most effectively.

You may love engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming, playing sports, or simply hosting a backyard BBQ for friends and family. However, summertime fun can sometimes come at a price. At worst, sun exposure can cause melanoma, the worst type of skin cancer and the leading cause of death from skin disease. Even if you don’t develop cancer, however, prolonged and unprotected sun exposure can wreak havoc on your skin and speed up the signs of aging, such as the development of lines and wrinkles. While you can attempt to fight this process with anti-aging products or conceal it with makeup, it’s easier and more effective to prevent it by protecting your skin at all times.

Today, there are more ways than ever to ensure your skin stays protected. Many cosmetics such as foundation and powder include sunscreen, as do skincare products such as moisturizers. However, many of these include only a low SPF that may not provide as much protection as you need to prevent sun damage, which is why you may want to wear a sunscreen in addition to your regular makeup and skincare products. Dermatologists usually recommend an SPF of at least 15, which blocks 94 percent of UVB rays. Higher SPF products block a slightly higher percentage, but typically not enough to dramatically increase sun protection or warrant the additional cost.

One to try: If you like to incorporate sun protection into your daily skincare routine, consider Millcreek Aloe Vera & Paba Moisturizing Lotion, which not only nourishes and hydrates skin, but also features UV protection. It keeps skin smooth and supple, as well as relieving minor skin problems such as dryness and irritation. Plus, it includes PABA to absorb UV rays and help protect your skin from damage.

At Beauty Universe, we carry a wide range of beauty and skincare products that can help your skin maintain its supple and radiant appearance. By using sunscreen every day and following up with our gentle but effective cleansers, moisturizers and other skincare products, you can shield your skin from the sun’s rays and look youthful and glowing all year long.