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Is Your Sunscreen Doing Enough? What to Look For This Summer

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Summer sunshine is something many of us look forward to all year. But before you head outside, it s worth asking yourself an important question: is your sunscreen actually protecting your skin the way it should? Not all sunscreens are created equal, and using the wrong one, or applying it the wrong way, can leave your skin vulnerable to sunburn, early aging, and even skin cancer.

The Basics: What to Look for on the Label

To start, check that your sunscreen is labeled “broad-spectrum.” This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can cause premature aging, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn. You ll want protection from both.

Next, make sure the sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher. While SPF 15 is better than nothing, dermatologists recommend SPF 30 as a minimum for daily use. If you’re spending time outdoors, sweating, or swimming, a water-resistant formula will offer more reliable coverage.

How You Use It Matters

Even the best sunscreen won t help much if it s applied too thinly or too late. Apply a generous layer to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Don t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, your hands, and your feet. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you re in the water or sweating. Using makeup or moisturizer with SPF? That s a nice bonus, but probably not enough on its own for long days outside. Layering a dedicated sunscreen underneath will give your skin better protection.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you re unsure which sunscreen is right for your skin type, or if you ve noticed changes in your skin—like new moles, spots that won t heal, or irritation after sun exposure—it s time to see a dermatologist. They can recommend the best sun protection for your lifestyle and screen for early signs of skin damage or cancer. Sunscreen is one of the simplest and most powerful tools we have to protect our skin.

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Karen F.

I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

RJ and MJ Olson

We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

Cathy Robinson

The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

Susan Zeller

As a new patient I greatly appreciated getting an appointment with a few days of submitting my application form instead of a long wait. The staff at the front desk were very pleasant, efficient and helpful in making this happen. The service I received from my doctor was good.

Tom

David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

Jennifer Gemmell

This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

Reece W

Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

Don Wood

Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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