June 30, 2013 Sunscreen: the ultimate anti-aging cream

Special to The Leader The Orange Leader The Orange Leader Sun Jun 30, 2013, 02:48 AM CDT

HOUSTON Why buy expensive wrinkle creams when the most effective anti-aging product is a simple bottle of sunscreen?

Dr. John Wolf, chair and professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, recommends using a daily application of a sunscreen with an SPF, or sun protection factor, of at least 15 to help counteract premature aging. It will also help protect against skin cancer.

Although individuals typically use sunscreen to prevent painful sunburns, Wolf said damaged skin becomes thicker and darker. So essentially, tanned skin is damaged skin.

Wolf also advises parents to make sure their children are protected because 70 percent of sun damage happens before age 17. Former sun worshipers should also use sunscreen to protect their skin from further damage.

Tips for younger-looking skin this summer include:

Using sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Reapplying sunscreen throughout the day, especially when sweating.

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Sunscreen: the ultimate anti-aging cream