If you’re like most seniors, you’ve already put this OTC drug in your mouth at least once today…
Which means you CANNOTignore THIS urgent health warning.
Researchers are in an uproar to discover this popular OTC drug is linked to more than 4,589 cases of rapid vision loss - this year alone.
[HINT: It’s not Advil, Ibuprofen, or Motrin. But it’s consumed as regularly as morning coffee.]
For the sake of your vision – make sure you AVOID this drug at all costs.
To your health,
The Health Collective (David Riley, Ben Carter, David McKenna, Bryce Hammond)
Featured Article by Dr. Ryan Shelton, N.M.D.
How To Pick The Right Sunscreen
Hi, it’s Dr. Ryan Shelton…
When you head outdoors to soak up the sun this summer, don’t forget to apply a generous application of sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend wearing it all year round, but it’s especially important when you’re going to spend a lot of time out of doors. It’s your best defense against harmful UV rays when you are in direct sunlight.
If you go to the drugstore or browse products online, you’ll find hundreds of creams, gels, sprays, and sticks. But which sunscreen is right for you?
Here are a few golden rules to help you decide:
- Choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection
There are two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer: UVA and UVB. Look for a sunscreen that protects your skin against both kinds.
- Choose a product with an SPF of 30 or higher
The Sun Protection Factor, or SPF, on your sunscreen bottle tells you how much UVB light it can filter out. Sunscreens with an SPF of 15 filter 93% of UVB rays, and those with an SPF of 30 block 97% of rays. Dermatologists recommend using a product with an SPF of at least 30; higher is better.
- Decide whether you need a chemical or physical sunscreen
There are two types of sunscreen: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens absorb rays. Avobenzone and oxybenzone are two of the most common ingredients. Physical sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both, deflect rays. Both types offer equally good levels of protection. If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free physical sunscreens.
- If you are going to spend time in water, choose a water-resistant product
No sunscreen is waterproof, but some products are more water-resistant than others. “Water-resistant” is an official term regulated by the FDA. Sunscreens labeled “water-resistant” must remain effective for 40 minutes in water. Those labeled “Very water-resistant” must still offer protection after 80 minutes.
- Avoid sunscreens that contain insect repellent
Sunscreens that contain insect repellent are convenient and will protect you from harmful rays, but the American Academy of Dermatology says these should be avoided. Sunscreen should be applied more frequently than insect repellant, so it’s best to buy and use separate products.
- Pick a sunscreen you’ll find easy to apply
Traditionally, sunscreen has been formulated as a lotion, but you might find other types are easier to apply. For example, some people find that it’s quicker to apply sprays, and others like to use sticks, particularly on the neck and face. Whatever kind of product you choose, apply it 15 minutes before going into the sun and reapply every two hours. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your head if you are bald or have thinning hair.
Other sun safety tips
No sunscreen can block 100% of dangerous rays, so take other steps to stay safe in the sun. Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, and cover as much skin as possible with clothing. If you want a tan, choose the bottled or spray-on varieties; tanned skin is damaged skin.
To everlasting health,
Dr. Ryan Shelton, N.M.D.
P.S. What kind of sunscreen works best for you? A cream, spray, stick, or something else? Hit ‘reply’ and share your thoughts with me.
Today’s Affirmation: I have gifts and talents that I have yet to discover.
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