Summer is here, and with it comes the need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. While many people are aware of the importance of sunscreen, not everyone knows how to choose and use it effectively. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and advice for selecting the best sunscreen for your needs and using it properly for maximum protection.
Tip #1: Choose a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or Higher
When selecting a sunscreen, it’s important to choose one that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. Higher SPF values can provide even greater protection, but it’s important to note that no sunscreen can offer 100% protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Tip #2: Apply Sunscreen Generously and Frequently
To get the full benefit of sunscreen, it’s important to apply it generously and frequently. A general rule of thumb is to use one ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover all exposed areas of the body. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Tip #3: Don’t Forget to Protect Your Lips and Eyes
The skin on your lips and around your eyes is particularly vulnerable to sun damage, so it’s important to protect these areas as well. Look for a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher, and wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Tip #4: Choose a Water-Resistant Sunscreen for Swimming and Sweating
If you’re planning on spending time in the water or working up a sweat, it’s important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Look for a sunscreen that is labelled “water-resistant” or “very water-resistant,” and reapply it every 80 minutes while in the water.
Tip #5: Be Mindful of Sunscreen Ingredients
Some people may have sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients in sunscreen, so it’s important to be mindful of what’s in the products you choose. Look for sunscreens that are labelled “hypoallergenic” or “fragrance-free,” and avoid ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs and other marine life.
Tip #6: Use Other Sun Protection Measures in Conjunction with Sunscreen
While sunscreen is an essential component of sun protection, it’s not the only measure you should take. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, and avoid tanning beds altogether.
Tip #7: Take Extra Care with Children and Infants
Children and infants are particularly vulnerable to sun damage, so it’s important to take extra care when protecting their delicate skin. Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for children, with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it generously and frequently. Keep babies under 6 months of age out of direct sunlight altogether, and dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside.
By following these tips and incorporating sunscreen into your sun protection routine, you can enjoy the great outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
