Sunscreen: Your Ultimate Guide

Exposure to the sun's harmful rays can have serious consequences for your skin health. Prolonged sun exposure without protection can lead to sunburn, premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Sunscreen plays a crucial role in shielding your skin from these dangers. When applied correctly, it forms a protective barrier that absorbs or reflects the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing it from penetrating your skin.

Choosing the right sunscreen

When selecting a sunscreen, consider a few factors. First, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can prematurely age the skin, while UVB rays can cause sunburn.

Second, understand sunscreen labels and SPF ratings. SPF measures a sunscreen's ability to protect against UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. Experts recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for adequate protection. However, it's essential to note that SPF only indicates protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. Look for sunscreens labeled as broad-spectrum to ensure protection against both types of rays.

Physical vs. chemical sunscreen

Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients work by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting or scattering the sun's rays. They provide immediate protection upon application but often require more diligent reapplication because they are not always water resistant. They also can leave a white cast to the skin. Physical sunscreens are often preferred by individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies.

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's UV rays and converting them into heat. Common active ingredients in chemical sunscreens include avobenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate. Unlike physical sunscreens, chemical sunscreens absorb into the skin and don’t leave a white cast. They tend to be more lightweight and easier to apply, however, they may take about 20 minutes to become effective after application.

How to apply sunscreen correctly

Proper sunscreen application is essential for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful effects. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

How much sunscreen to apply: The recommended amount of sunscreen to apply is about one ounce, equivalent to a shot glass full. This should be enough to cover your entire body. Pay extra attention to areas that are often overlooked, such as the ears, lips, back of the neck, scalp and tops of the feet. For your lips, you can find SPF lip balm. You should also protect your hairline and part. You can use sprays, sticks, or powders for easy application.

Reapplying sunscreen for maximum protection: To ensure maximum protection, reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. Even water-resistant sunscreens can wear off over time, so be diligent about reapplication. Remember to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside to allow it to fully absorb into your skin.

When should I use sunscreen?

If you will be outside, you should wear sunscreen on all skin not covered by clothing. Even on cloudy days, you can get burnt. Up to 80% of solar UV radiation can penetrate clouds.

Does sunscreen go bad?

Sunscreen lasts for three years, and many bottles will include an expiration date. If it is past that date, or you don’t remember when you bought the bottle, throw out the sunscreen.

Be sure not to leave your sunscreen in a hot car, or under direct sunlight. Extreme heat can cause the ingredients to break down and become less effective. If your sunscreen changes in color, or consistency, then it is probably time to buy a new bottle.

Other types of sun protection

Sun protection should be a daily practice for you and your family, but sunscreen isn’t the only way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

• Clothing - Cover your skin with clothes and wear wide-brimmed hats. If you are spending long hours in the sun, you can opt for UV-resistant/UV-protective clothing.
• Timing - When possible, avoid peak sunshine hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Be cautious near water, snow and sand - These can reflect the sun’s rays, increasing your chance of sunburn.

Sunburn treatment

It is easy to forget to reapply your sunscreen while you’re having fun outside. Thankfully, most sunburns can be treated at home through:

• Cool down: Take a lukewarm bath or apply cool compresses to the sunburned areas.
• Moisturize: Aloe vera gel or lotion will help hydrate and soothe your skin.
• Reduce pain and swelling: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help manage discomfort.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which is worsened by sunburn.
• Blister care: Leave blisters alone. Popping them increases your risk of infection. If a blister opens or shows signs of infection (pus, redness, increased pain), consult your doctor.

Seek emergency care if:

• You have large, widespread blisters.
• You experience confusion, dizziness, or fainting.
• You have a fever, chills, or nausea/vomiting.
• You have severe weakness or lethargy.
• You're unable to urinate.