I know it's hard for most of us living with migraine disease to be out in the sun, but if you'll be out in the sun at all, you need to apply sunscreen. Hopefully if you can't use the product yourself you have a child, spouse, friend or other family member who will put it to good use. Protecting ourselves from the sun from childhood through old age is so very important.
To request your free sample, please visit: CVS Minute Clinic on Facebook.
CVS Pharmacy and Minute Clinic offer these Summer Sun Safety Tips:
What does SPF mean?
- SPF = Sun Protection Factor, which is a measure of how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays
- It also predicts, in some cases, how long it may take your skin to get sunburn when you are wearing that sunscreen
Under the new FDA sun care guidelines, look for sunscreen products that are:
- Labeled “Broad Spectrum,” which prevents against both UVA and UVB rays (these are the only products that can reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging)
- SPF of at least 15, preferably 30 or 50
- Re-apply every 1.5-2 hours!
- Products will no longer be labeled with the words “sunblock”, “waterproof” or
“sweatproof” because sunscreens eventually always wear off.
- UVA rays are more responsible for the skin’s aging.
- UVB rays are the rays that cause sunburn.
When it comes to spending time in the sun, remember:
- The sun is strongest between 10 am and 2 pm, so limit your outside time during those hours.
- Some makeup products or prescription medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to read labels and take caution.
- If you do get burned and feel as though you need medical care, visit your local Minute Clinic for a thorough assessment and treatment. To find a location near you, visit www.minuteclinic.com/locations.
- Minute Clinic, the medical walk-in clinic inside select CVS/pharmacy
stores, is the largest provider of retail health care in the US. Certified family nurse practitioners and physician assistants provide
affordable and convenient health care services seven days a week – no
appointment necessary. Minute Clinic locations accept most insurance plans.
- (Note that sunburn patients with a fever greater than 99.9 degrees, with blistering of greater than 5 cm and those who are immunocompromised or have diabetes may be referred to another care setting.)
Subscribe to the Somebody Heal Me feed: Subscribe in a reader or subscribe by e-mail. Follow me on Twitter @somebodyhealme.
Content by Diana E. Lee.DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this site constitutes medical or legal advice. I am a patient who is engaged and educated and enjoys sharing my experiences and news about migraines, pain and depression. Please consult your own health care providers for advice on your unique situation.
