Buzz
You probably know to apply sunscreen when going to the beach, but did you know dermatologists recommend using it anytime you’re outdoors for more than 20 minutes, even during winter? Sunscreen should also be applied on cloudy or overcast days. UV rays from the sun can start damaging your skin in as little as 15 minutes! This damage can even lead to skin cancer. Prevention is always better than cure, and the best way to avoid sunburn is to apply sunscreen every time you step outside during the day.
Steps
Choose the Right Sunscreen
Check the SPF Rating. SPF stands for 'Sun Protection Factor,' which measures the ability to block UVB rays. The SPF number indicates how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning compared to not using sunscreen.
- For example, SPF 30 means you can theoretically stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. So, if you normally burn after 5 minutes, SPF 30 would allow you to stay in the sun for 150 minutes (30 x 5) without burning. However, factors like skin type, activity level, and sun intensity can affect sunscreen effectiveness, so you might need to reapply more often than others.
- The meaning of SPF can be confusing because the level of protection doesn’t increase proportionally with the number. For instance, SPF 60 isn’t twice as effective as SPF 30. SPF 15 blocks about 94% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks around 97%, and SPF 45 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen can block 100% of UVB rays.
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a product with SPF 30 or higher. The effectiveness of extremely high SPF products doesn’t differ significantly and isn’t worth the extra cost.
Choose a sunscreen labeled 'broad-spectrum.' SPF only indicates protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, the sun also emits UVA rays, responsible for skin damage like aging signs, wrinkles, and dark or light spots. Both UVA and UVB rays increase the risk of skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Some sunscreens may not explicitly say 'broad-spectrum' on the packaging, but if the product protects against both UVB and UVA rays, it will always be clearly stated.
- Most broad-spectrum sunscreens contain 'inorganic' ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, and 'organic' ingredients such as avobenzone, cinoxate, oxybenzone, or octyl methoxycinnamate.
Look for water-resistant sunscreen. Your body releases water through sweat, so it's essential to choose water-resistant products. This is especially important if you plan to engage in high-intensity activities like running, hiking, or water sports.
- No sunscreen is truly 'waterproof' or 'sweatproof.' In the U.S., sunscreen products are not allowed to advertise as 'waterproof.'
- Even with water-resistant sunscreen, you must reapply it every 40-80 minutes as indicated on the label.
Select a sunscreen format you prefer. Some people prefer sprays, while others like thick creams or gels. Regardless of the format, you must apply a thick, even layer. How you apply sunscreen is just as important as the SPF rating: if not used correctly, sunscreen won't be effective.
- Sprays are most convenient for hairy areas, while creams work best for dry skin. Alcohol-based or gel products are ideal for oily skin.
- You can also opt for stick sunscreens, which are great for areas near the eyes. Sticks are also a good choice for children, as they minimize the risk of getting sunscreen in their eyes. Additionally, sticks are spill-proof and easy to apply directly.
- Water-resistant 'sport' sunscreens are often sticky and not suitable for use under makeup.
- If you have acne-prone skin, be cautious when choosing sunscreen. Look for products specifically designed for the face and labeled 'non-comedogenic,' 'won't clog pores,' 'for sensitive skin,' or 'for acne-prone skin.'
- Many people with acne-prone skin find zinc oxide-based sunscreens to be the most suitable.
Test a small amount of sunscreen on your wrist. If you notice any signs of irritation or other issues, switch to a different product. Repeat this process until you find the right one, or consult a doctor for recommendations on brands suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin if needed.
- Itching, redness, burning, or blistering are all signs of an allergic reaction. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are generally less likely to cause skin allergies.
Apply Sunscreen
Check the expiration date. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires sunscreens to remain effective for at least three years from the date of manufacture. However, you should still pay attention to the product's expiration date. If it has expired, discard it and purchase a new one.
- If the product doesn’t have an expiration date when you buy it, use a marker to write the purchase date on the packaging. This way, you’ll know how long you’ve had the product.
- Noticeable changes like discoloration, separation, or texture alterations are signs that the product has expired.
Apply sunscreen before sun exposure. The chemicals in sunscreen need time to absorb into the skin and become effective. You should apply it before going outdoors.
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Lip balm with SPF should be applied 45-60 minutes beforehand.
- Sunscreen needs time to 'set' on the skin to work effectively. This is especially important with water-resistant formulas. If you jump into a pool just 5 minutes after application, the sunscreen will lose much of its effectiveness.
- This is also crucial when caring for children. Kids are active and impatient, and when they’re excited about outdoor adventures, it’s hard to keep them still. Apply sunscreen before leaving the house, while waiting for the bus, or in the parking lot.
Use enough sunscreen. One of the biggest mistakes people make is not applying enough. Adults typically need about 30 ml of sunscreen (roughly a palmful or a shot glass amount) to cover all exposed skin.
- For lotions or gels, squeeze the product into your palm and spread it evenly over sun-exposed areas. Rub it in until no white streaks remain.
- For sprays, hold the bottle upright and move it across the skin. Spray generously to create an even layer. Ensure the sunscreen isn’t blown away by the wind before reaching the skin. Avoid inhaling the spray and be cautious when applying near the face, especially around children.
Apply sunscreen to your entire body. Don’t forget areas like the ears, neck, tops of the feet, hands, and even the part in your hair. Any skin exposed to the sun needs protection.
- Hard-to-reach areas like the back can be tricky. Ask someone to help apply sunscreen there.
- Thin clothing often doesn’t provide enough protection. For example, a white T-shirt only has an SPF of 7. Wear UV-protective clothing or apply sunscreen underneath your clothes.
Don’t forget your face. Facial skin needs sunscreen even more than the rest of the body, as many skin cancers occur on the face, especially the nose and surrounding areas. Some cosmetics or lotions contain SPF, but if you plan to be outdoors for more than 20 minutes (cumulative, not all at once), apply sunscreen to your face.
- Many facial sunscreens come as lotions or creams. If using a spray, spray it into your hands first, then apply to your face. Avoid spraying directly onto the face if possible.
- The Skin Cancer Foundation provides a list of recommended facial sunscreens.
- Use a lip balm or lipstick with SPF 15 or higher.
- If you’re bald or have thinning hair, remember to apply sunscreen to your scalp. Wearing a hat is also a good way to protect your head from the sun.
Reapply sunscreen after 15-30 minutes. Studies show that reapplying sunscreen 15-30 minutes after sun exposure is more effective than waiting 2 hours.
- After the initial application, reapply every 2 hours or as directed on the product label.
Stay Safe in the Sun
Seek shade. Even with sunscreen, you’re still exposed to intense sunlight. Stay under shade or use an umbrella to minimize sun damage.
- Avoid peak hours. The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If possible, stay indoors during this time. Find shade if you’re outside during peak hours.
Wear sun-protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can shield your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Wear a hat to provide shade and protect your scalp.
- Choose tightly woven, dark-colored fabrics for the best protection. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors can invest in specially designed sun-protective clothing, available at specialty stores or online.
- Don’t forget sunglasses! UV rays can cause cataracts, so opt for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
Keep children out of direct sunlight. Sunlight, especially during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is particularly harmful to young children. Look for sunscreens formulated for babies and infants. Consult a pediatrician to find out which products are safe for your child.
- Infants under 6 months should not wear sunscreen or be exposed to direct sunlight. Their skin is not fully developed and may absorb more chemicals from sunscreen. Use shade or protective coverings if you must take your baby outside.
- For babies over 6 months, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Be careful when applying near the eyes.
- Dress young children in sun-protective clothing, such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, and lightweight pants.
- Provide children with UV-blocking sunglasses.
Tips
- Even with sunscreen, avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Purchase sunscreen specifically designed for the face. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for 'oil-free' or 'noncomedogenic' formulas. Specialized products for sensitive skin are also available.
- Reapply sunscreen after swimming, sweating, or every 2 hours as directed on the label. Sunscreen is not a 'one-and-done' product.
Warnings
- There is no such thing as a 'safe' tan. UV tanning beds and natural sunlight both increase the risk of skin cancer. A bronzed glow may look great, but it’s not worth risking your life. Consider alternatives like self-tanning sprays.
