Teen skin care

Here are some tips from our teen skin care experts to keep in mind before soaking up some rays: wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15, even if it's cloudy outside or you don't plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. If you go swimming and plan to stay outside, remember to reapply sunscreen (even if the bottle says the sunscreen is waterproof). The AAD recommends reapplying sunscreen at least every 2 to 3 hours while you are outside. Choose a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Look for ones that say "nonacnegenic" or "noncomedogenic" on the label to help keep pores clear. Avoid spending a lot of time outside between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the sun is the strongest.

Teen skin

If you have fair skin, our teen skin care experts recommend wearing a hat and staying in the shade. If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure you clean them frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around your eyes and nose. On the beach, use an umbrella for some shade. People with lighter skin have less natural protection against the sun. Avoid tanning beds. Although some manufacturers claim that tanning beds are free of UVB rays and won't burn your skin, these beds still use harmful UVA rays that are up to five times more concentrated than the sun's rays. Apply more sunscreen (with higher SPF) when you're around reflective surfaces like water, snow, or ice. If you still want the glow of a tan, try faking it. Self-tanners are sold at most drug and department stores and are generally inexpensive and easy to apply.

Skin care

When cold sores hit the scene, you might want to take a break from smooching your sweetie and sharing drinks with your friends. Cold sores are caused by a type of herpes virus (HSV-1, which is not sexually transmitted) and are contagious from person to person. Once you get this virus it stays in your body, meaning you'll probably get cold sores every now and then throughout your life. The good news is, though, there are ways you can help to prevent cold sores from making an appearance. Our teen skin care experts advise you not to share stuff like lip balm, toothbrushes, or drinks with other people who might have cold sores. The virus that causes cold sores is transmitted through the nose (in mucus) and the mouth (in saliva). Cold sores can flare up from things like too much sun, stress, or being sick. Just one more reason to lather on that suntan lotion, eat well and exercise, and get plenty of sleep!