Is the Sun a Friend Or Foe?

Even, plush, slightly dewy skin is said to represent youth. It seems that all the marketers with their anti-aging efforts would lead you to believe that this in fact is what we are all chasing. And so maybe we are or we aren't!? I guess it really depends on the individual. However, if we consider the perfect state of skin it really exists only in infancy. Once we are old enough to walk and explore the outdoors, we are confronted by the illustrious sun. Yet, while we count on our caregivers to be applying gobs of sunscreen there are times we feel the suns burn deep to our core.

Each time the sun is able to penetrate its powerful rays through to the deepest layer of our skin we are turning on the signal to produce more melanin. Although, quite often there is a huge degree of separation between how quickly we can produce the melanin versus when permanent damage begins. Each time throughout our life that we are causing damage to the skin we are increasing the risk of freckling, dark spots, and/or patches. Nevertheless, skin whitening is a viable option to address these concerns. However, would it not be better if we did not have to deal with them in the first place? Therefore, prevention seems like the most viable answer. But is staying out of the sun what we really want?

Certainly, we are all aware of the damage the sun can cause, but let's not forget about its benefits. The warmth of the sun has a tendency to bring people together. A great afternoon walk in the park or a barbeque, who could resist that? As well, the warmth of the sun seems to bring joy within people. However, let's not forget the health benefits of the natural production of D vitamin - namely one of the most important vitamins in anti-aging.

So instead of staying out of the sun, what about building a different kind of relationship with the sun. In order to get the daily requirement of D vitamin all we need to do is have our forearms exposed for 15 minutes in direct sunlight. Take advantage of this wonderful benefit! And for the rest of the time, get out the sunscreen - the higher the SPF the better. The great thing is that today sunscreen comes in many forms. We are all familiar with the typical creams, lotions, and sprays, but did you know there are now SPF towelettes and even make-up mineral powders with this protection.

We also have to remember that some parts of our body should have minimal exposure. A hat with a wide brim is great as it will protect both your face and head. Sunglasses will protect your eyes. At times you may want to wear some type of cover-up for a while to limit the amount of direct sun touching your skin even if you are wearing protection.

So while avoiding the sun is one of the greatest skin whitening prevention tips it is not realistic. We need to be able to enjoy the sun without reaping the negative consequences. And this can be easily achieved by simply changing how we behave in the sun. Learning to reap the benefits of the sun will have positive implications on your health and hopefully make you a happier person as well.

Kaye Shaw is a full time writer who specializes in health and beauty. As a former make-up artist and esthetician she is very passionate about this industry and loves to provide valuable information to readers. If you are interested in learning more skin whitening tips then visit her new website by clicking here. Providing quality skin care products and skincare treatment reviews online.