5 tips to keep your skin healthy

It’s the human body’s largest organ: your skin. It helps protect against germs and regulates body temperature.

The weather is warmer and the outdoors may be calling, but as you spend more time under the sun, experts say protecting your skin from its rays is critical. And the first line of defense is sunscreen.

“It’s really not a matter of the SPF; 30 is fine. It’s a matter of applying sunblock correctly,” Doctor Shane Dormady with El Camino Health said.

Dormady says many people don’t do that. His second tip: proper sunscreen application. 

Apply it to the skin 15 minutes before going outdoors so it has time to sink in and reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often when you do things like get into the water, sweat, or wipe off with a towel.

Third, he says to seek shade and avoid too much sun exposure, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when ultraviolet rays are most powerful.

Fourth, cover skin with clothing when you can. 

“Sunglasses have ultraviolet protection, and wearing a hat is helpful, especially a wide brimmed hat,” Dormady said.

Finally, be aware of the sun’s reflection, especially if you’re heading to the beach.

“When you are near the water or on the sand, water and sand can actually magnify and somewhat reflect the rays of the sun, making it easier to get a sunburn,” Dormady said.