Um, is this sunscreen still good?
Memorial Day brought the opening of pools, outdoor social events are ramping up and the unofficial start of summer has us all outside more.
One interesting fact we found this week is that sunscreen is required to have a shelf life of 3 years. If you’ve got a bottle that old, one of two things is going on. You aren’t using enough of it and reapplying. Or you need to get outside more!
More on sunscreen in this week’s edition.
- Maggie Ruvoldt & Stephanie Majercik
The Tasting Menu
Picking the Perfect Sunscreen
Pros and Cons of Birth Control Pills
Macular Degeneration 5 Facts
Picking the Perfect Sunscreen
We all know that sunscreen is a vital tool in preventing skin damage. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right sunscreen. So what should you be thinking about:
How Much SPF?
Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to shield your skin effectively. You also want sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, safeguarding against both UVA and UVB rays. See our Medical Term of the Week to learn more.
Consider Your Skin Type
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreens to prevent clogged pores. For dry or sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen with moisturizing properties and gentle ingredients. If you have combination skin, look for lightweight, gel-based formulas that offer hydration without excessive greasiness. There are also products specifically designed for darker skin tones.
Texture and Application
Choose a sunscreen that feels comfortable on your skin, whether it's a lotion, cream, gel, or spray. You won’t use a product if you don’t like how it feels on your skin. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when selecting the application method. Lotions and creams provide better coverage and are ideal for everyday use, while sprays are convenient for reapplication on-the-go. Remember to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Streamline Your Routine
If you use foundation in your makeup routine, consider one that includes SPF of 30 or higher. By incorporating a foundation with sunscreen into your beauty routine, you can simplify your morning ritual. You can get the smooth, even complexion you want from foundation while shielding your skin from the sun's damaging effects.
Choosing a Birth Control: Pros and Cons of the Pill
There are many options of birth control out there. We’ll cover each of the different options, but will start with The Pill. Arguably, birth control pills are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to protect against pregnancy – and it can have other benefits beyond that.
When used properly, the pill is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. If you’re considering the pill, here’s some of its benefits:
Reduces menstrual cramps, lightens periods, and lowers risk of ectopic pregnancies
Combination pills (more on that below) also help with:
Acne
Bone thinning
Cysts on your breasts or ovaries
Reducing risk for certain cancers
Iron deficiency
PMS
On the flip side, you also want to consider some of the disadvantages:
You have to take it every day – missing or skipping pills decreases its effectiveness. Essentially if you’re concerned about your ability to take it everyday, you may want to consider other methods
There are side effects – i.e. spotting, sore breasts – while most go away after 2-3 months, some may linger. Your OB/GYN can advise on alternative pills to lessen side effects
Birth control pills containing estrogen can carry some rare but serious risks (like blood clots)
Types of Pills
We could probably do a whole separate article on the different types of birth control pills (so please let us know in your feedback if that would be helpful!) We’ll cover it at a high level here today and encourage you to speak with your doctor to help select the right option for you.
There are 2 types of pills. The minipill and the combination pill.
Minipills contain only progestin. Combination pills contain both estrogen and progestin. There are several different types of combination pills, with different doses of hormones depending on your needs – like how often you want to have periods or other health concerns you’re hoping the pill will help with. Your doctor can help narrow in on the best option for you.
The birth control method you choose is entirely up to you, your lifestyle, and what you need out of it. Stephanie shared her story about being on the pill on our blog – check it out for a personal take on selecting birth control – and let us know if you’d like to share your birth control story!
Macular Degeneration 5 Facts
Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly as we age. It involves the gradual deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Macular degeneration typically affects central vision while leaving peripheral vision intact.
Here are five important facts about macular degeneration:
1. Macular degeneration has two main types: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration, also known as atrophic macular degeneration, is more common and progresses slowly over time. Wet macular degeneration, also called neovascular macular degeneration, is less common but more severe, often leading to rapid vision loss.
2. Several factors can increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. Age is a significant risk factor, particularly people over 50. Family history and genetics also play a role, as certain gene variations can predispose individuals to the disease. Other risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and prolonged sun exposure.
3. Common symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty recognizing faces or reading, and the appearance of dark spots or empty areas in the central vision. In the early stages, symptoms may be subtle or non-existent, but as the condition progresses, vision loss can become more noticeable and impact daily activities.
4. A comprehensive eye examination is the first step in diagnosing macular degeneration. This may involve visual acuity tests, retinal imaging, and a dilated eye examination. While there is no cure for macular degeneration, treatments can help slow its progression and manage symptoms.
5. While macular degeneration cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle factors may help reduce the risk or slow its progression. Protecting your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses and hats, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels are all ways to keep your eye healthy.
Medical Term of the Week
There are two terms to know to protect your skin in very different ways: SPF vs Broad-Spectrum Protection
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburns.
Broad-spectrum protection, safeguards against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.
Not everyone can use hormone replacement therapy. Now there’s an FDA approved hot flash treatment that is not hormone based (From NY Times)
Turns out social media is a terrible source for our sex ed 2.0 and women’s health needs. Ok, we’re not surprised, which is why Eve Was Framed was founded! (From Medical Marketing and Media)
We love brands that break taboos and create great products for women. (From Beauty Matter)