Good Reminder

I went to the dermatologist today, for no reason other than reassurance.  I didn't have any issues to discuss or any worrisome spots.  I just felt the need to get a once over and reassurance that I don't have anything to worry about since I haven't been to a dermatologist since I was young.  I wasn't quite prepared to disrobe and be observed from head to toe, but I feel better knowing that every inch of skin was checked out. I got a clean bill of health as far as my skin is concerned!

At the end of my appointment the dermatologist went over skin "safety" rules with me which included the ABC's of monitoring moles and she reminded me to wear sunscreen daily and to reapply every 2 hours when I'm in the sun.  She also suggested that I wear a swim shirt when swimming.  Ironically, I had just bought a new swim suit a few hours prior to this appointment, and it did not include a swim shirt.  The dermatologist also recommended the sunscreen, hats, and swim shirts for my kids and to start them off early as far as sun safety. 

I walked out of the appointment thinking "what a nice reminder this was".  I know to use sunscreen, but honestly I never think of it unless I know I'm going to be in the sun all day long...and for some reason I feel like it has to be really hot before I use sunscreen.  When fall comes around I sort of put the sunscreen bottles "away" because I know there ain't no way I'm spending time outdoors over the winter!  By the way, did anyone ever decide you wanted to move south with me?? 

For some reason having a doctor examine me and then remind me about these good habits made me excited to actually practice them.  First thing on my agenda tomorrow is to return my swim suit and find something with more protection from the sun.  I also plan to purchase swim shirts for my kiddos (Rylee already has one) and try to get them interested in wearing hats. 

This same motivation happens to me when I visit the dentist.  I have terrible dental habits and I'm not afraid to admit it.  I mean, what's the point of brushing my teeth if I'm not leaving the house?? Okay, Okay, I do brush my teeth most days.  Every single time I visit the dentist I walk away excited to floss daily and brush my teeth at night (something I've never been good at because I don't go to bed until I'm super tired and brushing my teeth is the last thing I want to do).  I usually last about a month and then go back to the old until my next appointment.

Anyway...I find caring for my skin much more important than my teeth, so hopefully I can incorporate sunscreen into my daily routine and make it become habit.  I do really want to be a good role model for my kids and want them to understand the importance of protecting our skin from the sun.  Hopefully they won't feel the need to fake bake when they are older like I did...ugh. 

Anyone recommend an awesome face moisturizer with sunscreen that actually moisturizes?