If you live in Texas, you’re at risk for skin cancer, no matter how dark your skin is or what your genetics are. Of course, if you’re fair or have a familial or personal history of skin cancer, you’re at increased risk, but everyone should protect themselves year-round from the sun’s damaging rays.
During spring and summer, the sun’s rays are particularly intense. You’re also more likely to spend time outdoors, exposing your skin to the sun’s destructive ultraviolet (UV) rays — both A and B.
More people in the United States develop skin cancer than any other type of cancer. All skin cancers can be deadly if not caught and treated in time. An annual skin cancer screening lets your dermatologist identify and treat any cancerous or precancerous lesions. In between your exams, sunscreens help keep you safe.
At Specialists in Dermatology, our expert dermatologists offer a selection of high-quality sun-protective products at our Houston, Texas, and Woodlands, Texas, offices. They also help you choose which ones are right for you, based on your particular skin type and needs.
No matter what type of sunscreen you choose, be sure to select one that has broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30. Avoid sunscreens that have toxic ingredients that can enter your bloodstream, such as:
A better, safer choice is a sunscreen that contains only organic ingredients or provides a nontoxic physical barrier (i.e., minerals) to prevent your skin from absorbing the sun’s rays. Ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide reflect the sun away from your skin to keep you safe, inside and out.
Just as you wouldn’t skimp on quality when it comes to skincare products, choose the highest quality possible ingredients for your sunscreens and moisturizers with sunscreen, too. We recommend and carry the following brands:
Known for their medical-grade skincare products that are backed by science, SkinCeuticals offers an array of broad-spectrum sunscreens that have an SPF of 30-50. All of their sunscreens are clinically tested and are free of fragrances and PABA.
The SkinCeutical sunscreens come in both lightweight lotions and denser creams. They offer:
The organic and blended formulations are better at keeping your skin moisturized and are also water-resistant. You might choose one of those when you’re working out or swimming to prevent the sunscreen from washing off. SkinCeuticals also makes a sunscreen that’s formulated for the delicate, sensitive eye area.
The Colorescience sunscreens are known as “UV protectors” and contain no chemicals. In addition to offering broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, their sunscreens contain ingredients that help protect you from other environmental stressors.
Colorescience is best known for their brush-on minerals that protect you from sun while adding a matte layer to your bare skin or foundation. The Sunforgettable brush-ons are available as sheer or tinted. They also have lip balms in a range of shades.
Another medical-grade sunscreen line comes from EltaMD. All of the EltaMD sunscreens protect with transparent zinc oxide. They’re free of fragrances and parabens, are noncomedogenic, and won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Their sunscreens range from SPF 30-50+. As with the other brands, EltaMD offers both sheer formulations, and those with tints that help your complexion look smooth and even-toned.
Protect your skin from the sun and skin cancer. Contact Specialists in Dermatology in Houston, Texas, or The Woodlands, Texas, today to get the products you need to stay safe this summer.
