Summer is a great time to get outside and rejuvenate your mind and body. But for your skin, summer means extra exposure to the sun, heat and sweat. This summer, give your skin a little TLC with these tips for healthy, refreshed skin.

It’s never too early in the year to think about applying sunscreen. The sun’s UV rays can damage your skin all year long. Even on a cloudy day, your skin can be exposed to up to 40 percent of the sun’s UV rays [source: Skin Cancer Foundation]. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to keep your skin safe.

Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) rating of at least 15 [source: Mann]. For those with lighter, fair skin, try a sunscreen with a rating of SPF 30. Apply your sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before going outside. To be the most effective, sunscreen needs time to absorb into your skin.

Don’t be frugal — apply sunscreen liberally and reapply sunscreen every two hours or after getting out of the water, since towel drying strips away sunscreen [source: Mayo Clinic]. You’ll also want to reapply lotion after exercising, as sweat can water down sunscreen, making it less effective.

Whether you have dry skin, oily skin or normal skin, don’t forget to moisturize it. Simple daily activities such as perspiring, shaving or washing your face can disrupt the skin’s natural oil and moisture level. To counteract any skin stress your daily routine causes, apply a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type to keep things soft and supple.

Now that you have added sunscreen and moisturizer to your shopping list,check tomorrow to discover how to deal with those oily patches of skin that leave you feeling greasy.

Do sunny days and warm weather lure you outside to sunbathe, hoping to add a little color to your skin? Every year, the “California girl” standard of beauty sends millions of sun-worshippers to the pool, the beach or the tanning bed in search of the perfect tan.

Unfortunately, a bronze glow that’s appealing today can turn into future problems, so it makes sense to learn more about the long-term effects of sun exposure before you head outdoors.

Tanning is the skin’s natural way of protecting itself from the sun, but the truth is, there’s no such thing as a healthy tan. All ultraviolet rays in sunlight are harmful to the skin, and the amount of damage depends on how long you stay in the sun.

A long afternoon on the beach or a three-set tennis match can result in red, sunburned skin that leads to blistering and peeling. It may also lead to heatstroke, a condition that occurs when the temperature regulating mechanism of your body is unable to keep up with the heat, causing dizziness, breathing problems, nausea, headaches or fainting.

Over the long haul, accumulated sun exposure causes wrinkles, sunspots, a leathery feel and premature aging. The most serious risk from excessive sun exposure is skin cancer. More than 1 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer and 60,000 cases of melanoma skin cancer were diagnosed in 2008, according to the American Cancer Society [source: WebMD].

Today, while medical science warns that no amount of tanning is safe, some people are reluctant to give up their pursuit of a golden tan. Many misconceptions exist that there is a “safe” way to tan. Here’s the real story behind the top five myths.

5: Tanning Beds Are a Safe Way to Tan

Health and skin experts agree: There is no safe way to tan, and tanning beds are no exception. Tanning beds work by exposing the skin to UV rays, which have been proven to cause skin cancer. The United States Department of Health and Human Services has classified exposure to sunlamps or sunbeds as “known to be carcinogenic to humans” and says that the longer the exposure, the greater the risk, especially to people exposed before the age of 30 [source: HHS]. Many states are discussing legislation to restrict access to tanning salons, especially for young people under 18.

A few years ago, the indoor tanning industry promoted that the bulbs used in tanning beds use more UVA rays than the UVB rays that are more likely to cause a burn, hoping this would convince people tanning beds were a safer alternative to natural light. But the World Health Organization (WHO) determined that they are equally dangerous, and UVA rays may be even more likely to cause melanoma, the most deadly of skin cancers [source: WHO].

Overuse of tanning beds can also lead to wrinkles, sunspots and other sights of premature aging. Even teenagers may notice additional moles or freckles after repeated visits to the tanning bed — a certain sign of sun damage.

And if you’ve heard that indoor tanning promotes good health by boosting vitamin D levels, don’t believe it. Most people get all the vitamin D they need from ordinary sun exposure and a balanced diet that includes dairy products, breads, fish and eggs.

4: Sunscreen Provides Complete Protection from the Sun

Sunscreen is only one part of a smart plan for sun protection. Sunscreens absorb, reflect or scatter the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun by providing physical or chemical protection. Physical sunscreens contain ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide that form a film to reflect or scatter UV light before it contacts the skin. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients such as avobenzone or osybenzone that absorb UVA or UVB rays.

Every sunscreen has a sun protection level (SPF) that is a measurement of the amount of UVB protection. The higher the number, the greater the protection. An SPF of 15 filters out about 93 percent of the sun’s UVB rays; SPF 30 filters about 97 percent of UVB rays.

The effectiveness of sunscreen depends on several factors, including how likely your skin is to burn, how intense the UV rays are, and the amount of sunscreen you apply and how often you apply it. Sweating, swimming, showers and even high humidity, can decrease the effectiveness of your sunscreen. While some sunscreens are water resistant, none are truly waterproof.

When you’re choosing a sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. And make sure it actually contains sunscreen: Tanning lotions, accelerators and oils don’t, so if one of those products ends up in your beach bag, you may come home with a nasty burn.

3: Getting a Base Tan or Using a Sunless Tanning Product Protects Your Skin

Going on a tropical vacation or taking a cruise? You may think it’s smart to schedule some time in a tanning bed or lounging by the pool before your departure to acquire a base tan so you won’t get sunburned when you arrive at your destination.

Truth is, a base tan gives some protection, but the real problem is that any change in skin color is the body’s natural reaction to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays: It’s visible proof that the skin is damaged. Repeated exposure to UV rays increases your risk of premature skin aging and skin cancer.

Sunless tanning products change the color of the skin, but they don’t stimulate melanin production or absorb UV rays in the range that cause sunburn or sun damage. These self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which gradually stains the dead skin cells in your skin’s outer layer. The ‘tan’ lasts until these cells slough off, and the color will fade faster if you wash vigorously or exfoliate.

“Fake bake” products are available in many different formulations, including lotions, sprays and towelettes, and you may want to experiment with different brands to find one that works best with your skin tone. Some salons offer “airbrush tanning,” and the results are usually even and natural-looking. If you choose either sunless option, you’ll get the warm color that comes from the sun without the potential for skin damage.

2: People with Darker-toned Skin Don’t Have to Worry About Sun Damage

Not necessarily. Skin color is determined by the amount of melanin in the epidermis, or the outer layer of the skin. Melanin helps protect the skin against the effects of the sun such as skin cancer and premature aging. In African-American skin, melanin provides an SPF approximately equal to 13.4, compared to 3.4 in white skin. This variance explains why skin cancer is more common in Caucasians, whose light skin color and low presence of melanin makes them more susceptible to sun damage.

Although melanin provides some sun protection, even olive or darker toned skins can burn after a long day in the sun or show signs of skin damage over time (wrinkles, sunspots and blotchiness). And skin cancer is also a risk: It makes up 2 to 4 percent of all cancers among Chinese and Japanese Asians, and 1 to 2 percent of malignancies in African-Americans and Asian-Indians, and the statistics are rising.

Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, occurs in all races. One type of melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), is responsible for 50 percent of all melanomas in dark skin. ALM is called a “hidden” melanoma because it develops in places that are not easy to examine: the palms and soles, underneath nails, and on mucous membranes, such as those that line the mouth and nose. In its early stages, ALM is often overlooked because it looks like a bruise or nail streak. Bob Marley, the reggae legend, died from melanoma

1: There’s No Need to Worry About Sun Damage on a Cloudy or Cold Day

If you’ve ever suffered a sunburn after a day on the ski slopes or playing in the snow, you know this myth just isn’t true. Ultraviolet rays are still present, even if the skies are cloudy. Some people will stay outside longer if conditions are overcast, and this false sense of safety can lead to painful sunburn.

Snow, water and sand actually reflect 85 percent of the sun’s rays, so if you are skiing, boating or spending time on the beach, it’s important to wear sunscreen and to reapply it frequently.

Whenever you’re going to be outdoors, it’s a good habit to follow a sensible plan for sun protection. Be sure to apply sunscreen generously: Use about 1 ounce to cover exposed areas of the body about 30 minutes before heading outdoors, rub it in well, and reapply at least every two hours.

For an even more effective sun protection, head for the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when sunlight is strongest, and cover up with light colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, plus sunglasses that block UV rays.

The result? Younger-looking, healthier skin that will stay attractive for years to come.

Despite what many women think, skin aging doesn’t have to take place rapidly as you get older. In fact, premature wrinkles can often be prevented with simple skin aging preventative tips. Whether you’re biggest skin concern is discoloration, sun spots or wrinkles, there are things you can do to reverse your current skin damage and prevent more premature skin aging from occurring. Use these top five tips to help you learn how to get younger looking skin, now!

Be Smart And Use Sunscreen
The easiest way you can protect your skin from aging prematurely is to stay out of the sun. However, unless you’re a vampire staying out of the sun is pretty much impossible! So, instead of becoming a recluse who only comes out at night, be smart and wear sunscreen. The rays of the sun emit harmful UV light waves, which can not only cause your skin to redden but can also cause wrinkles or skin cancer. Carcinoma and melanoma are some of the most common cancers detected today, which is why wearing sunscreen every day is an absolute must.

Wear A Hat Or Sunglasses
Even if you do as you should and wear sunscreen, you may start noticing fine lines around your eyes due to the fact you might have a habit of squinting in the sun. To prevent these lines, simply wear a hat or sunglasses each time you’re outdoors. This will discourage you from squinting and getting unnecessary wrinkles at the corners of your eyes.

Moisturize Often: Every time you wash your face!
One key to having smooth and supple skin is to use moisturizer. Be sure to moisturize at least once in the morning and once at night. However, in the winter months when the weather is drier, you may need to moisturize more often. It’s a good idea to choose a light moisturizer for summer and spring and a thicker moisturizer for the fall and winter months.

Keep An Eye On Nutrition: Junk Food in Moderation
Proper nutrition is meant to keep your body healthy but it can also have an impact on your skin. One of the most important things if you want great skin is Vitamin A, which can be found in many dairy products. Some foods also minimize the damage from free radicals, like berries. While most skin care experts agree junk food doesn’t cause skin problems, if you limit sugar and fat in your diet, you’ll definitely see healthier overall results in your total health.

Choose Smart Beauty Products that Pamper and Protect Skin
While you may be leaning on your current makeup to only cover up unsightly liver spots or blemishes, if you choose smart products you’ll be able to get so much more from each product you choose to use. Smart products are those which contain ingredients not only meant to beautify you but also meant to give you an extra perk or two. Many include SPF protection, which is important for everyday wear. Others contain anti-aging ingredients you can benefit from each day you apply makeup. By using combo smart products, you’ll save money and time!

It’s much easier to work on preventing signs of aging skin than it is to treat wrinkles after they’ve formed. By taking a proactive stand and learning how to prevent premature skin aging, you can enjoy beautiful skin all throughout your life.

Even if you get to the pool and slather sunscreen on your face and body before you spend the day in the sun, you’ve likely forgotten something important — your lips. Using a sunscreen on your lips protects you in two ways. First, because the sun ages skin (lips included), the sunscreen keeps your lips feeling and looking healthy and vibrant. Second, skipping the sun protection in your lip products puts you at an increased risk of getting skin cancer or another skin condition [source: Dahl].

Sun damage leads to skin losing some of its elasticity, and unprotected lips are no exception. Also, lips naturally have thin skin, and sun damage can make the skin appear even thinner [source: Dahl].

Lips damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet rays might also develop a condition called actinic cheilitis, or lip inflammation. This causes dry, rough, scaly lesions ranging in size from a pinhead to a quarter or more. Actinic cheilitis patches can range from skin-colored to a reddish brown shade, or sometimes appear as a whitish, scaly discoloration. Actinic cheilitis can also be a precursor to skin cancer and should be treated by a dermatologist [source: AAD: Actinic Keratoses].

If you like to add luster to your lips with lip gloss, know that some dermatologists say lip gloss without SPF might increase the possibility of developing skin cancer by acting as a kind of magnifying glass for the sun’s rays. You might want to consider using a lip gloss with SPF, layering a lip product with SPF of at least 30 underneath or foregoing the lip gloss completely and switching to a matte lip product with SPF [source: Dahl].

No product with SPF can completely protect you from damaging rays. SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Up the SPF to 30, and you’ll block 97 percent of UVB rays. Use SPF in your lip products even on cloudy days, and reapply often (at least once every two hours). Also, be sure to use a broad spectrum product that protects against both burning rays (UVB) and the rays that age your skin (UVA) [source: AAD: Skin Cancer].

Since sun damage builds up over time, it’s never too late to start good practices to give your lips some sun protection.

There are several myths surrounding vitiligo. Patients who notice irregular white patches on their skin should speak with a skincare professional. These white patches get progressively larger and may be a source of embarrassment for many patients. Although there is no known cure for vitiligo, certain treatments are available to reduce the contrast between normal skin and the white patches on the skin. Sorting through the myths and facts about vitiligo is important for patients suffering from the condition.

Is it Contagious?

No. Vitiligo cannot be spread from one person to another. It is safe to touch, hug, kiss of have sexual intercourse with a person who has vitiligo. The cause of vitiligo is not fully understood, but the condition is not passed from one human to another via sneezing, coughing, sharing food, a bed or in any other way.

Does diet play a role?

No. Diet does not cause vitiligo and does not play a role in its development. This is actually a fairly common myth, and while doctors and scientists have theories as to the cause of vitiligo, diet does not play a role.

Is it related to albinism?

No. Albinos are born with melanin cells that do not produce pigment. Patients with vitiligo once had functioning melanin cells, but they have since stopped working. Also, patients with albinism have white skin all over their body, and have white hair, eyebrows and irises, while those suffering from vitiligo have white patches on their skin.

Is it related to skin cancer?

Some scientists believe that vitiligo does not lead to an increased risk of skin cancer, although others believe that the white patches are more prone to sunburn. To learn more about the possible link between skin cancer and vitiligo, consult a physician. There is no known cure for vitiligo and its cause is not fully understood. Therefore, there are no known ways of preventing vitiligo. There are, however, resources for patients suffering from vitiligo that offer information about treatment and how to reduce the contrast between the white patches and normal skin. The best resource is a skincare professional, while SkinCareGuide.com offers further information as well.

What is SPF?  How to Choose a Good Sunscreen

With millions of people suffering with skin cancer or sun related skin damage every year, the use of sunscreen is more important than ever before. The good news is more people are becoming aware of the risks associated with sun overexposure and are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves in the future. The even better news is there are a multitude of products on the market which make it very easy to take care of your skin and protect it from the sun’s damaging rays. However, many people are quite confused over which sunscreen they should purchase and use. There are many confusing terms often used on sunscreen packaging which make it difficult to know what can protect in the most effective way.

What Is SPF?

SPF is an acronym which stands for Sun Protection Factor. Bottles with higher SPF numbers will protect better against harmful UVB rays from the sun. Basically, the SPF number is an indicator of how long you can stay in the sun without burning. For instance, if a person usually gets burned in 15 minutes, a lotion with SPF 15 protection would allow them to stay in the sun 15 times longer (or for 225 minutes) without burning.  It’s recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology that everyone wear a product with at least SPF 15. Of course, some people wonder if this means an SPF of 50 will protect loads more than lotions with SPF of 30. However, this is not necessarily the case. A lotion with SPF 50 only protects about 2% more than a lotion with SPF 30.

UVA and UVB

When you’re looking at lotions and sunblock products, be sure to check out the protection they offer from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are those which result in the aging of the skin and they may cause skin cancer. Without UVA protection from Coppertone lotions or any other sunscreen lotion, you’ll get more wrinkles. Thus, one factor to think about when choosing your daily makeup or moisturizer is whether or not it offers included UVA protection. Neutrogena offers high rating products to help you combine both makeup coverage and skin protection in one. UVB rays are those which can also give sunburn and are related to the cause of skin cancer.

Waterproof Sunscreen

While years ago white zinc oxide was required for beach goers, today there are many options when it comes to skin protection. You no longer are forced to look like a clown to get ultraviolet protection. Instead, you can now find waterproof sunscreen to help you be able to frolic in the ocean or at the pool without worrying about sun damage. Be sure to look for a type that is both noncomodegenic and hypoallergenic. Also be sure to remember most “waterproof” lotion provides up to 80 minutes or protection but “water resistant” lotion might only give up to 40 minutes of protection.

With so many great products on the market for every day skin protection, there is no excuse to not protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Skin damage from the sun not only causes cancer but it can also cause things like early aging of the skin and wrinkles. While cancer is much more terrifying to consider, most women aren’t motivated to protect themselves due to it because they think it will never happen to them. However, all women are concerned about wrinkles so take action today and protect yourself from both!