Summer Skin Safety: Get the 411 on Sunscreens

Summer is such a fun time to be outside... at the beach, participating in sports activities, hiking, biking, running, or just grilling outdoors on a Sunday afternoon.

The tricky part about all of that, however, is the exposure you're getting to the sun.

You should actually use sunscreen all year round to protect your skin from the sun's rays, but it is especially important to be mindful during the summer months.

Why is sunscreen so essential?

Sunscreen protects you from the UVA and UVB rays emanating from the sun. UVA rays cause wrinkles and brown spots while UVB rays are what cause you to burn. Both are linked to cancer.

Since many sunscreens contain harmful ingredients, which ones should you look for when shopping for you and your family members?

To get good, solid protection, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are two ingredients which can get the job done. Both physically block the sun's rays from penetrating your skin. In the scheme of things, they are the safest and least irritating.

Other sunscreen tips to which you should adhere?

Make sure you're using one full ounce every time you apply, otherwise you are minimizing protection. Also, apply at least 30 minutes before going outside. And, finally, don't waste big bucks on anything rated SPF 50 and above, as experts can't really accurately test and gauge their effectiveness.

Beauty expert, David Pollock, joins Andrea and Lisa to give you the 411 on sunscreens so you can practice summer skin safety... all year round.

You can also learn more on David's website, www.justaskdavid.com.