☀️ Summer Strong: How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Lasting Protection

As summer heats up and we spend more time outdoors, one of the simplest, most effective health decisions you can make each day is protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. At Galvan, we believe in empowering individuals to make smart, self-governed choices for their health—and understanding how sunscreen works is a great place to start.

🧴 Two Main Types of Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your shield, but not all shields are built the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen

• How it works: Sits on top of the skin and reflects UV rays like a mirror.
• Ingredients: Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Best for: Sensitive skin, immediate protection, babies and young children.
• Pros: Non-comedogenic, less irritating, works as soon as applied.

2. Chemical Sunscreen

• How it works: Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat.
• Ingredients: Avobenzone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, etc.
• Best for: Daily use, invisible finish, water/sweat resistance.
• Pros: Lightweight, blends well, ideal for active use.

🌞 What’s the Difference Between UVA and UVB?

Both UVA and UVB rays damage the skin, but in different ways:

🔹 UVA (Aging Rays)

• Penetrate deep into the skin
• Cause premature aging, wrinkles, and can contribute to skin cancer
• Present all year round, even on cloudy days

🔹 UVB (Burning Rays)

• Affect the outer skin layers
• Responsible for sunburns and most skin cancers
• Strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

✅ That’s why you want a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

‍

🔁 How to Use Sunscreen Correctly

To get the full benefit, follow these dermatologist-backed tips:

• ✅ Choose SPF 30 or higher
• 🕒 Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure
• 🔄 Reapply every 2 hours, or after sweating/swimming
• 🧴 Don’t skip ears, neck, scalp, hands, and feet
• 🧢 Pair with sun-protective clothing, hats, and shade when possible

🌿 Empowered Choices, Every Day

Using sunscreen isn’t just a beauty tip—it’s a daily health decision that protects your largest organ and supports long-term wellness. Whether you’re gardening, hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up the joy of being outside, sunscreen is a simple habit that aligns with Galvan’s mission:

🛡️ Giving people the tools to take ownership of their health.

Your health is yours. And every time you make an informed, empowered decision—like choosing the right sunscreen—you’re building toward a stronger, healthier you.

#GalvanWellness #SunSmart #BroadSpectrum #SelfGovernedHealth #SummerHealth #Wellbeing #EmpowermentThroughKnowledge

‍