Take Me Out for a Spa Day

If you’re in to baseball (or the beautiful weather in the spring this time of year) chances are you are either closely following the spring training games or you may even be headed out to a game or two.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this is a good of time as any to remind you about the importance of using sunscreen. I know, as men, we’re immune to just about anything, but remember men experience the highest rates of skin cancer because we’re simply not using sunscreen.

Keep in mind too; UVA and UVB rays are responsible for 90 percent of our skin’s aging. Read that one more time. Yes, the sun is linked to those lines around the eyes and mouth, the deep lines on the forehead, brown spots, and sagging skin.

If you are using or plan to use sunscreen, there are just a few things to keep in mind:

• Not all sunscreens are created equal. Look for formulas that protect against both UVA and UVB rays (these will be labeled “broad spectrum”).
• Labels like “waterproof” and “sweat proof” the FDA is now calling “exaggerations of performance.” So don’t be fooled.
• Sunscreens can’t claim to provide more than two hours of protection without reapplication.
• Applying sunscreen once in the morning doesn’t cut it. If you are going to be exposed to sunlight throughout the day, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., you need to reapply every couple of hours.

One last thing to keep in mind, the sun alone doesn’t cause damage while you are outside. In addition to the rays beating directly on your skin, the sun reflects off sand, water, concrete, pavement to cause double the damage.

On a much lighter note, if you will be in Arizona for spring training, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity for some R and R. The lazy days at the ballpark combined with the very generous deals offered by local area resorts and spas, and the beautiful weather creates the perfect storm for the ultimate recharge. Check out FireSky Resort and Spa or the Camelback Village Racquet and Health Club for the REDMethod's Gentleman's Facial. Both are near several of the ballparks.

Check out the REDMethod's EnviroProtect for more information on sunscreens.