Twins Take On: Sun Protection

If you're a regular reader, then you know we take health and anti-aging pretty seriously around here at TTO.  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime and around 90% of non-melanoma skin cancer is related to sun exposure.  Not only that, but an estimated 90% of skin aging is caused by the sun!  All these statistics made us think carefully and evaluate our sun protection routine this summer.  Here are some of our tips to protecting yourself in the sun.  Disclaimer: Although Jess has seen every episode of Grey's Anatomy, we are NOT MEDICAL EXPERTS!  For more specific information, please consult your doctor or dermatologist.

• Protect Your Face: We mentioned this back in our anti-aging post, but we make sure to have sunscreen on at least our faces every, single day.  Even if you spend most of your day inside at a computer screen, you'll get exposed to the sun on your morning commute or walk to the coffee shop.  When looking for day-time moisturizer or foundation, be sure to choose something with SPF.  This way, you can get sun protection without having to layer sunscreen under your regular products.  We know a lot of people complain about breaking out with sunscreens that are too thick, that's why we like specially formulated face products.  Neutrogena makes our current favorite. 

Sunscreen with no breakouts!  Yes, please!

• Don't Skimp on the Sunscreen: When we're outside, we make sure to apply and re-apply sunscreen.  One thing we always do is apply the first layer of sunscreen at home, right before getting dressed.  Trying to apply while you're at the beach or pool, you're bound to miss a spot or two.  Enlist a friend or partner for a little help, to make sure you get all those hard to reach spots.  We like to start with a base of a lotion-based sunscreen and use spray formula for reapplication out on the town.

• Use Fashion to Your Advantage:  These days, we have a lot of options in terms of fashionable beach-wear that also provides you with adequate sun protection.  Rash guards are cute AND protective.  You can even throw one in your beach bag and toss it on over your usual suit if you want to add a layer after being outside for a while.  Lands End has a great selection and they are made with SPF 50 material!  We didn't learn until Jess started buying kids swimwear for her little one that you can have SPF built right into your actual swimsuit!  Non-moms take note!!  Athleta also has a line of SPF clothing, too.  Sunhats are also super on trend right now.  We often rock a basic baseball cap, but try a straw hat with a larger brim for more face and neck coverage.

Look cute and protect yourself!



Buy this hat!

• The Eyes Have It: When you think about protecting your face, don't forget your eyes!  Wear sunglasses as much as you can and look for a style that gives you good coverage and polarized lenses.

We both love and wear these!

These are just a few of our tricks to protection yourself from the sun this summer!  What are your favorite sun protection tips?  Let us know in the comments below and stay safe out there!