For example, an SPF of 30 means that you can spend 30 times as long in the sun before burning compared to not wearing any sunscreen at all. So, if you would usually begin to burn after 5 minutes in the sun, an SPF of 30 would theoretically allow you to spend time outside for 150 minutes (30 x 5) before you burn. However, your unique skin, your activities, and the sun’s intensity all cause variation in how effective sunscreen is, so you may need to use more than other people. The SPF number can be tricky, because its protection doesn’t increase proportionally. Thus, SPF 60 is not twice as good as SPF 30. SPF 15 blocks about 94% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 45 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. [4] X Research source The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of 30 or higher. [5] X Expert Source Kelly ChuProfessional Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 9 May 2019. The difference between extremely high SPFs is often negligible and not worth the extra money. If you’re going swimming or sweating, go with a sunscreen that’s SPF 50. [6] X Expert Source Kelly ChuProfessional Makeup Artist Expert Interview. 9 May 2019.
Some sunscreens may not say “broad-spectrum” on the packaging. However, they should always state whether they protect against UVB and UVA rays. Most broad-spectrum sunscreens contain “inorganic” components such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, as well as “organic” sunscreen components such as avobenzone, Cinoxate, oxybenzone, or octyl methoxycinnamate. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
No sunscreen is “waterproof” or “sweat proof. ” In the US, sunscreens cannot market themselves as “waterproof. ”[11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Even with water-resistant sunscreen, reapply every 40-80 minutes or as directed on the label.
Sprays may be best for hairy areas, while creams are usually best for dry skin. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Alcohol or gel sunscreens are good for oily skin. [14] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You can also purchase wax sunscreen sticks, which are good for applying near the eyes. This is often a good choice for children, as it avoids getting the sunscreen in the eyes. They also have the benefit of not spilling (such as in a purse) and can be applied without getting lotion on your hands. Water resistant “sports type” sunscreens are often sticky, so they are not good choices for applying under makeup. [15] X Research source For acne-prone individual, take care in selecting your sunscreen. Look for those that are designed specifically for your face and will not clog pores. These often have higher SPF (15 or higher), and are less likely to clog pores or increase acne breakouts. Many acne-prone individuals find that zinc oxide-based sunscreens tend to work best. Look for “non-comedogenic”, “will not clog pores”, “for sensitive skin”, or “for acne-prone skin” on the labels.
Itching, redness, burning, or blisters are all signs of an allergic reaction. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are less likely to cause allergic skin reactions.
If your product doesn’t have an expiration date when you purchase it, use a permanent marker or a label to write the purchase date on the bottle. This way you’ll know how long you’ve had the product. Obvious changes in the product, such as color changes, separation, or different consistency, are signs that the sunscreen has expired.
Sunscreen on the skin should be applied 30 minutes before you go out into the sun. Lip sunscreen should be applied 45-60 minutes before going into the sun. [17] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Sunscreen needs to :“cure” on the skin to be fully effective. This is especially important in the water-resistance factor. If you put on sunscreen and jump into the pool 5 minutes later, much of your protection will be lost. This is also very important for caring for children. Children are usually wriggly and impatient, and are usually doubly so when excited about an outdoor adventure; after all, who can stand still when the ocean is right there? Instead, try to sunscreen before leaving the house, or in the parking lot, or waiting for the bus.
To apply cream or gel sunscreen, squeeze a dollop into your palm. Spread it all over the skin that will be exposed to the sun. Rub the sunscreen into your skin until you can’t see the white anymore. To apply spray sunscreen, hold the bottle upright and move the bottle back and forth across your skin. Apply an even, generous coating. Make sure the wind doesn’t blow the sunscreen away before it contacts your skin. Don’t inhale spray sunscreen. Be careful when applying spray sunscreens around the face, especially around children.
It can be hard to fully cover hard-to-reach areas such as your back. Ask someone to help you apply sunscreen to these areas. Thin clothing often doesn’t offer much sun protection. For example, a white t-shirt has an SPF of just 7. Wear clothing designed to block UV rays, or wear sunblock under your clothes. [19] X Research source
Many facial sunscreens come in cream or lotion form. If you use a spray sunscreen, spray it into your hands first, then apply it to your face. It’s best to avoid spray sunscreens on the face if possible. The Skin Cancer Foundation has a searchable list of recommended facial sunscreens. [20] X Research source Use a lip balm or lip sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 on your lips. If you are bald or have thin hair, remember to apply sunscreen to your head, too. You can also wear a hat to help protect against sun damage. [21] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Once you’ve done this initial reapplication, re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours or as directed on the label.
Avoid “peak hours. ” The sun is highest between 10AM and 2 PM. If you can, avoid sun exposure during this time. Seek shade if you’re out and about during this time.
Look for tightly-woven fabric and dark colors, which offer the most protection. For people who are very active outdoors, there is special clothing with built-in sun-protection, available at specialty stores or online. Remember those sunglasses! The sun’s UV rays can cause cataracts, so purchase a pair that block UVB and UVA rays.
Infants under the age of 6 months should not wear sunscreen or be exposed to direct sunlight. Young babies’ skin is not mature yet, so they may absorb more of the chemicals in sunscreen. If you must take young infants outside, keep them in the shade. [25] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source If your baby is older than 6 months, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be careful when applying sunscreen near the eyes. [26] X Research source Dress young children in sun-protective clothing, such as hats, long-sleeved sun shirts or lightweight long pants. [27] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source Get your child sunglasses with UV protection. [28] X Research source
