Special Edition

Welcome to our special edition, wellness-focused newsletter for spring. We’ll see you outside.

Sunscreen facts unpacked: Here’s what you need to know to protect your skin

Dozens of people gather on a dock while others swim in the river on a sunny day. A highway overpass looms above them.

It’s not yet time for Duckworth Summer Wednesdays, but hot days and swimming will be here soon. | Photo by @ecolloyd

Sun’s out and so are we, Portland — but not without sunscreen, of course.

While spending time outside is a great way to boost vitamin D levels, we still need to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays (an invisible kind of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps that can damage skin cells).

So, whether you’re planning to be poolside, on a beach, or heading out to Laurelhurst Park (or one of our many other local parks), don’t skip out on the SPF.

This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re addressing commonly asked sunscreen questions to keep your skin protected while you’re having fun in the sun.

A person applying sunscreen on a child's back. — Did you know? It’s recommended for anyone six months of age and up to use sunscreen.
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GIF by PDXtoday team

When should I apply sunscreen?

Apply sunscreen to all areas that will be exposed to the sun ~15 minutes before heading outdoors. Once you’re out, reapply about every two hours (or after swimming or sweating), and make sure to check the directions on the bottle in case you need to reapply more frequently.

What order in my skincare routine should it be?

The very last step. Sunscreen should go on after serums and moisturizers to give a final layer of sun protection. Bonus: You can layer sunscreen with an SPF-based foundation. (Note: Even when using makeup with SPF, make sure you still add a layer of sunscreen underneath.)

Should I wear sunscreen even when it’s cloudy?

Absolutely. Even when it’s cloudy, up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches the earth. So even when the sun isn’t outside, you should still apply.

Pro tip: Less is more when it comes to sunscreen application. All you need is an ~ounce of sunscreen to protect your skin.

See you outside this summer, Portland.

News Notes

Fact or Fiction

Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Fact or fiction? Find out.

Active

It’s time to lace up those hiking boots, Portland. Check out these 16 local trails to start planning your next local outdoor adventure.

Community

Are you psyched about bikes? Pedalpalooza is Portland’s three month celebration of cycles, where the people have the power to organize their own quirky themed group rides, whether you’re into wearing kilts or singing ABBA at the top of your lungs.

Eat

Before you head out, try this recipe for protein-packed energy bites (no baking required) to keep your energy up during your next adventure.

Outdoors

If golf is more your cup of tee when it comes to outdoor exercise, check out one of these 20 golf courses in the City of Roses.

Health

Achooo. If this is you this allergy season, you’re among the 81 million people in the US dealing with seasonal allergies, and you may be on the search for relief. Looking to try a natural approach? Take a look at these natural remedies for seasonal allergies.

Number

39. That’s how many days there are until the official start of summer. Here’s what seasonal produce to look for — plus a strawberry salsa recipe to celebrate.

The Buy

Ready to protect your skin?

👚 Protect arms and chest with a simple women’s long-sleeve with UPF 50+ (meaning it blocks 98% of UV rays).

👕 This men’s UPF 50+ hoodie shirt is lightweight and perfect for outdoor adventures.

🌞 Sunscreen options can feel endless — we like Supergoop! SPF 40 Unseen Sunscreen for face, as well as CeraVe’s SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen. For body, get a bundle of Coppertone SPF 50 Spray Sunscreen that will last you all summer.

🕶️ For eye protection, shop Nordstrom Rack’s sunglasses under $100.

👒 Which sun hat would you choose: visor-style, one with a wind lanyard, or extra, extra wide?

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