As we approach the summer solstice (June 21st) and the dog days of summer, we are already noticing that the sun is warmer and stronger. Given that sunscreen expires, I try to buy all fresh bottles and sprays during May. So, let’s make hay while the sun shines with an idiom-filled ode to SPF…
Once you rise and shine, it’s time to prepare your skin to soak up the sun. The rays coming at us have UV – ultraviolet radiation – and cause damage to our dermis. Even if you have a thick skin, the UVA and UVB rays can cause sunburn / skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Sunscreen is what we slather on if we want to feel the sun on our skin, and the level of SPF is the effectiveness of what Sun Protection Factor is in the goo. The higher the SPF number, the more protection, and that’s the whole nine yards.
In the 1930s, an Austrian scientist names Franz Greiter created the system for measuring the effectiveness of sun protection products. Sunscreens sold in the US typically are 15, 30, 50, and higher, but to make a long story short, every brand can choose their numbers and do. Let’s not beat around the bush, if you use sunscreen with SPF 30, you can block up to 97% of those damaging rays. But not 100% – unless we’re talking about where the sun don’t shine, or you hide in a room with no windows.
While it may seem like you are a fish out of water if you were to get skin cancer, the Skin Cancer Foundation says one in five will get it. Considering the odds of getting struck by lightning is 1 in 15,300, it’s safe to say a little Coppertone can keep you walking on sunshine.
Like a cat on a hot tin roof, all good things must come to an end. I’m going to be a straight shooter and tell you I now listen to the experts and wear SPF every day. I should also consider buying stock in a sunscreen maker since they are a cash cow and will make a killing off of me.
If Only Jokes: What do you call a group of sunburned cows? Roast Beef!
Why is the sun not very heavy to carry? Because it is really very light.
Why is the sun always very mad at the clouds? They just keep throwing shade.
Why does the sun not need to go to college?
Because it already has a million degrees sitting at home and is bright enough.