May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

And in honor of "Skin Care Awareness month" I'll explain why I have sunscreen in my care. I'll admit it, I have a preoccupation with aging. I don't want to do it. No, that's not right, I DO want to age, I just want to age GRACEFULLY! Wrinkles are not a good look for anyone without the wisdom to back them up. When I get wrinkles, I want to have experienced LIFE.

The first places that show signs of aging are the face, the neck, and the hands. I apply sunblock to all three of these places on a daily basis. Sunblock is one of the best ways to prevent premature aging due to sun damage. On my face and neck, I use either Neutrogena Dry Touch Sunblock (spf 45) or Clinique Super City Block. Of course, when I apply, I use gentle upward strokes instead of tugging on the skin (and causing wrinkles). On my hands, I have Aveeno's sunblock (spf 55...I think). Most of the sun we get is by accident. It comes from walking in the sun, driving, riding the bus, etc. I just apply the sunblock to my hands when I get in the car, if I remember, and if not, I apply when I feel like my hands are hot. I keep my sunblock more accessible than the lotion in my car as well. That way, if my hands feel dry, I reach for the sunblock. Tinting your car windows is a good way to protect you skin as well.

Retinoids are another anti-aging measure that I am using, and will continue to use until there is something better. I have also changed the way I use eyeliner. I used to pull my eyelid out to get a great line, but now, I just apply the eyeliner to my lid. No pulling. No tugging. It takes longer, but I'm happy to know that I am doing my part to fight wrinkles! it's probably a little too early for me to start using eye creams, but I'm looking at them, trying to find out what makes a good one. They'll probably be added to my skin care regimine when I hit my mid to late 20's.

If these options aren't available to you, you could also take other measures: wearing sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat, and keeping your body as protected from the sun as possible. You should also avoid the sun during the times when it burns the hottest (noon until about 3 p.m.).