On Monday, July 4, 2011, America will celebrate its 235th birthday! The Fourth of July, or Independence Day, commemorates the birth of the United States of America by the signing and adoption of the Declaration of Independence, on July 4, 1776.

The fourth of July is truly America’s day—a time to honor our country by participating in a myriad of outdoor activities with family, friends and neighbors.

According to Wikipedia, “Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States of America.”

You’ve probably already begun to make preparations for your own Fourth of July celebration.

No doubt, if your plans include outdoor activities, careful attention will be paid to protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. But did you know that allowing yourself a little sun exposure is actually very good for your health? Getting your vitamin D from the sun is the best and most effective way to
attain it.

“How much sun exposure does it take to get vitamin D?”

It is true that too much sun exposure can cause skin damage and premature aging, but everybody should be getting some sun at least three times per week over 25% of the body for a determined amount of time.

One of the best things to come down the pike is postage stamp-sized “sensors” that gauge the intensity of the sun’s UV rays. When the sensor changes color it’s time to get out of the sun or apply sunscreen.

This Fourth of July, as you celebrate the birthday of the great Red, White and Blue– try Natural Vitamin D UV Activation Sensors to help you determine when you’ve received enough sunlight to produce ample vitamin D!

The July/August 2011 issue of AARP The Magazine contains an interesting article by Dr. Oz that focuses on a subject that is particularly important this time of year, as we spend more time outdoors in the sun. Aside from certain physical illnesses that can trigger sun sensitivity, there are three common conditions that can occur from being in the sun.

Phototoxicity can happen within minutes of UV exposure and is usually the result of the interaction of the UV rays with a medication you are taking. It appears as an exaggerated sunburn.

Photoallergy usually takes more time to develop. It can take hours, or even repeated exposures. It is usually a reaction between the UV rays and a fragrance or chemical on the skin. Some over the counter medications, supplements, and even foods can trigger this. This will typically appear as a red, bumpy rash.

Sun-induced eczema occurs when the immune system reacts after long-term, intense sun exposure such as working outdoors or years of sunbathing. Symptoms are itchy, red skin and possibly blisters.

If you have had a reaction in the sun that surprised you, a review of all of your medications, supplements, foods, and topically applied substances may provide you with the answer. Your prescription medication should have a sun-sensitivity warning on the label and the possibility of adverse reaction to the sun should be outlined completely in the pamphlet you receive from the pharmacy. If you are taking any medications that are known to cause photosensitivity, you should avoid sun exposure. If you must be in the sun, use a high SPF sunscreen that provides the best UVA protection available.

In May, we posted a blog that included a link to an article that was published in Skin Inc. Magazine discussing the increase in skin cancers among teens, particularly those who had regularly used tanning beds. In California, the Senate is proposing legislation that would repeal their current law – one that allows 14 to 17-year olds to use tanning beds so long as the parent or guardian permits it.

Senator Ted Lieu of the 28th District (D-Torrance) released a statement on April 28,2011, “The principle behind the bill is that the use of indoor tanning beds is risky and the results can be fatal, and so the choice to use them should be -in every sense of the term -an adult decision.”

This underscores what medical professionals have been saying for years – the UV radiation received from tanning beds is at least as harmful as tanning in natural sunlight has been purported to be. But there is one big difference between these two tanning methods…

Natural sunlight at the right time of day can expose the skin to the right range of UVB rays to prompt vitamin D production in the body. The UV light emitted from most lamps at tanning salons does not fall within this range. And remember, while getting vitamin D from the sun is good, over-staying the time in the sun necessary to do so is not.

Some people probably believe that California is going too far, but the challenge in educating teens against the negative effects of indoor tanning remains. The lure of suntanned skin is powerful, and the idea that they will experience premature skin aging and melanoma is ambiguous to them. There is a growing movement away from the look of extreme tanning, but we may never see a complete social turnaround that brings pale skin back into vogue.

As we roll into another hot summer, it’s a good time to keep the subject in mind, so here are some tips. Sun damaged skin and skin cancers are, in large part, preventable health issues. One can limit or cut out altogether indoor tanning. Outdoor sun exposure can be regulated – used only to optimize vitamin D development, always followed with a good broad spectrum sunscreen, preferably one that provides at least 30 SPF and 4 Star UVA protection to ward off sun damage.

As we discuss these important issues regarding tanning beds and sun exposure, awareness is bound to grow among teens and adults alike.

Listen as Dr. Joseph Mercola addresses all aspects of conquering pimples and acne…

SkinHealthTech.com offers an advanced topical solution to acne and patented UV Activation Sensors that gauge natural development of vitamin D from the sun.

Jack Surrette weighs in on the Final Sunscreen Rule and Proposed Sunscreen Rule announced this week by the US Food and Drug Administration.

The Final Rule establishes standards for UVA protection, clarifies claims on the label, and mandates new testing methods.

But what does all this mean to the public?

The consumer will get a clearer understanding of how a sunscreen performs.

There will be uniform standards and testing for “Broad Spectrum” UVA/UVB protection.

Although these new regulations are intended to help consumers—they are far from perfect.

Are there issues relating to sun protection that the FDA Final Rule missed?

Generally, the regulations are a respectable start, but there are good, bad and ugly parts when you dig into the details:

The Good –The FDA finally took action (after over 30 years), instituted better labeling and claims standards, and established a minimum protective level for “Broad Spectrum” protection. Unfortunately, however, it did not go far enough.

The Bad – The new testing standard actually lowered the UVA protection level proposed by the FDA in a 2007 recommendation. In fact, the new level is less than most sunscreens provide–on the market today. This means consumers will receive less, not more UVA protection. The UVA bar was set too low.

The Ugly – The new rules did not address application amount…the testing standards require the use of much more sunscreen than a consumer would ever apply. The FDA simply states “when used as directed…” Here’s the ugliest part. Most sunbathers apply less than a half of what’s needed, so they will actually receive far less protection than is stated on the label.

What about capping the SPF at 50+?

The 50 SPF cap is a Proposed Rule, so it may never be implemented into a Final Rule. The FDA is concerned whether there are actual clinical benefits to sunscreens above 50 SPF. In fact, there is solid evidence that higher SPFs DO provide more protection. Consequently, I think that some high protection formulas will remain on the market. They are particularly important, because, as mentioned earlier, consumers simply do not apply enough sunscreen.

The FDA also seemed concerned about sunscreen sprays…

Yes, they are requesting that the industry supply information based on the amount of sunscreen that actually reaches the skin, in an open air environment. Inhalation of the product is also a concern. These are valid health issues that should be explored.

Overall, are the rules that go into effect next year beneficial to consumers?

The FDA’s final ruling improves sunscreens by standardizing the labeling. Consumers will now be able to make a more informed decision about choosing healthier formulas. Unfortunately, the formulas are simply not required to be healthy enough. The broad spectrum standard is too low and proper product application was not addressed. The proposed rules and pending investigations are as important as this final rule. Getting these additional aspects resolved may take a very long time. Keep in mind it took the FDA over 30 years to establish this “final” regulation.

Jack Surrette served as Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of Hawaiian Tropic® for 17 years and was considered the driving force in building a small, Florida marketing/manufacturing company into the number two supplier of suncare products in the Western Hemisphere. His direct responsibilities grew during his 30-year career to managing global marketing and all R&D/QC functions. Jack nurtured and shaped the Hawaiian Tropic brand until April 2007 when Playtex Products acquired the company. Playtex was subsequently purchased five months later by Energizer Holdings. Jack now serves as President of Surrette Associates, a marketing consulting firm and Executive Director of SkinHealth Technology, both located in Ormond Beach, Florida.

The Chicago Tribune posted a great pictorial piece that features ideas for Things to Do with Dad on Father’s Day.

“We hear rumors that dads love spending time with their kids almost as much as they love a good neck tie. If this is true, take a chance this Father’s Day and shower dad with your attention, spend some time with the man and forgo the gaudy neck wear.”

If you check out the link to the article—you will see that the majority of their Father’s Day suggestions are for activities that take place outdoors. If you’ve heard the buzz about the benefits of vitamin D—you already know that it’s absolutely necessary for overall health and it’s best to get your vitamin D from the sun, directly. When planning your day with Dad, you can give him an added health bonus by taking along some Vitamin D UV Activation Sensors.

These patented solar sensors are the size of a postage stamp and are really simple to use. They adhere to skin or clothing and by changing color–the sensors are designed to help determine the amount of time necessary to attain your optimal vitamin D level before getting sunburned. Once the sensor turns from yellow to red—it’s time to apply a good broad spectrum sunscreen that protects in both the UVA and UVB range.

So, this Father’s Day give your Dad the gift of time with you and the gift of sunshine!

A recent episode of MTV True Life Acne edition put the spotlight on three young adults who were dealing the intense psychological trauma that severe cystic acne brings. These three extreme cases –a model, an aspiring Broadway performer, and boy about to graduate high school – had apparently tried traditional treatment to no avail and were left with only the uncertain side effects of Accutane or painful laser treatments, both very expensive options. Although the heartbreaking story was of last-ditch efforts, it articulated the desperation and loss of self esteem that acne of all degrees can cause.

Fortunately for most people who struggle with acne and pimples, the outcome from traditional treatments such as micronized benzoyl peroxide products or antibiotics, is better. This is little consolation, though, when self esteem is at an all time low due to break outs. For many people with even less severe acne, the emotional pain can be just as crippling as in people like those who were featured on True Life.

For people who have not reached the last-ditch stage of dealing with their acne – remember that acne is a stubborn problem – treating it requires perseverance. The compliance with treatment protocol may be much longer than you would like, but you have to see it through. If the prescription says take one pill twice a day without dairy, work it out. If the cream says apply two to three times a day, make it happen. Chances are that you will begin to see results.

If you’re looking for a one-step, fast acting solution for acne here is a recommended Acne Treatment.

Purpura (from Latin: purpura, meaning “purple”) is the appearance of red or purple discolorations on the skin that do not blanch on applying pressure. They are caused by bleeding underneath the skin.

Benign (from Latin bene-, “well” and -gnus, “born”) is a medical term used to describe a condition that is harmless.

Benign Purpura are blood spots under the skin that are innocuous. Although Purpura might look like typical bruises, they are not caused by an injury as most regular bruises are. Benign Purpura is a very common condition caused by the normal aging process, long-term sun exposure, or is often an unwanted side effect of prescription drugs like blood thinners and steroids. It is a chronic condition that appears on the hands, arms, legs.

“Older adults often bruise easily from minor injuries, especially injuries to the forearms, hands, legs, and feet. As a person ages, the skin becomes less flexible and thinner because there is less fat under the skin. The cushioning effect of the skin decreases as the fat under the skin decreases. These changes, along with skin damage from exposure to the sun, cause blood vessels to break easily. When blood vessels break, bruising occurs.”

According to WebMD, “Bruises develop when small blood vessels under the skin tear or rupture, most often from a bump or fall. Blood leaks into tissues under the skin and causes the black-and-blue color. As bruises (contusions) heal, usually within 2 to 4 weeks, they often turn colors, including purplish black, reddish blue, or yellowish green.”

SkinHealth Technology’s BruiseCare Solutions offer a natural and effective purpura treatment.

If your local drug store ran an advertisement that offered
a free lifetime supply of one of the most essential vitamin supplements for overall health, you would jump on it, wouldn’t you? That is not likely to happen, but you can have free vitamin D for life and get an even better result by simply spending more time in the sun. Plus this comes with the added bonus of mood elevation!

Vitamin D deficiencies are known to cause a long list of health concerns of which cancer, heart disease, arthritis and psoriasis are just a few. It is crucial to human health and well being and most people are deficient.

When we learn from a blood test that we are deficient, the first thing the doctor orders is a mega-dose supplement. This helps put vitamin D back in the bloodstream and aids in maintaining adequate levels in the blood. However, vitamin D supplements only last about half as long as the dose that is generated naturally by the body from 15 minutes or so of sun exposure without sunscreen.

So, you ask, how do I get my free lifetime supply of vitamin D? Spend time in the bright, mid-day sun with your arms and legs (roughly 25% of your skin) exposed 2 or 3 times a week. Since your geographic location and the time of year will greatly affect the intensity of the rays, use the new Natural Vitamin D UV Activation Sensors by SkinHealth Technology to accurately gauge the in-sun time needed. These sensors change color when exposed to the same wavelengths of UV light that signal your body to develop vitamin D. When the sensor turns from yellow to red, you have been in the sun long enough for your body to generate a full dose of vitamin D, but not so long that sun burning begins.

Getting vitamin D from the sun alone may not be adequate for some people such as the elderly  or people with underlying health conditions. Have your doctor check your vitamin D blood level to be sure– if necessary add a supplement and add vitamin D rich foods to your diet to help maintain healthy levels.

What’s the best strategy to rein in acne? Clear out your pores so that they can breathe. When a pore or sweat gland gets clogged, it creates an “anaerobic” environment in the pore, where the p. acnes bacteria thrive. To prevent this from happening, your pores have to breathe.

Aside from squeezing pimples and blackheads – which can actually make them worse – how do you clear the pores so they can breathe? Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is the most effective method for breaking up the oils that clog pores. Once inside the pore, it oxidizes, becoming a microscopic foam of sorts, that clears away the sebum that
blocks the pores.

Benzoyl peroxide is not only effective at oxidizing away the nasty oil clog, it also provides some other very important functions. When it hits the skin’s natural oils it starts to break down into benzoic acid. Benzoic acid is a natural anti-bacterial agent that is well known to prevent the p. acnes bacteria from growing into a bigger problem. The oxidized benzoyl peroxide itself is also an excellent anti-microbial agent that will quickly kill acne related bacteria. If you have an acne condition, this means your pores are continually clogging…

The condition of over production of sebum is not self-correcting once you have healed an outbreak and stopped using your acne cream. In order to keep those pores breathing, you have to use the product daily, even when the acne is not present.

If you know you are prone to acne, don’t wait for a big problem to re-occur. Start a daily regimen now. Application once a day after your shower with a good BPO based acne product is enough when a breakout is not apparent.

When breakouts are in full bloom, use your BPO-based product two to three times per day for best results. To avoid irritation choose a sensitive skin formula that contains micronized benzoyl peroxide, along with other beneficial ingredients like peptides and botanicals that are clinically proven to make redness and inflammation go away quickly. These tips will help minimize acne outbreaks when they occur and fend off future outbreaks.