This year’s World Sunscreen Day falls on May 27 and is officially celebrated as National Sunscreen Day. It teaches us just how helpful sunscreen is for keeping your skin healthy. Sunscreen shields your skin from dangerous UV rays which can keep you from getting wrinkles, sunburns, age spots and skin cancer early. You should use sunscreen every day, as the sun’s rays can be harmful regardless of when it’s hot or cold.
SPF Explained
Sun protection factor (SPF) is the way we measure how well a sunscreen blocks the sun’s harmful UVB rays. As an example, 93% of UVB rays are blocked by sunscreen with SPF 15, 97% by SPF 30 and 98% by SPF 50. It’s suggested by experts to choose sunscreen in the range of 30 to 50 SPF, since you’re not extra safe above that point.
You should check if your sunscreen is labelled as “broad-spectrum,” so you are safe from both types of rays. An easy method to understand the terms is to remember these: UVA causes ginger and UVB is when you burn. Both UVA and UVB rays cause similar problems (burns and premature aging), yet UVA rays are mainly responsible for fine lines and dark areas and UVB rays cause most of the cancers and sunburns.
No matter what your skin looks like, everyone should protect themselves from the sun with sunscreen. Usually, a ½ teaspoon for your face and neck and one ounce for your entire body is required. Because sunscreens gradually wear off, it’s important to put more on if you’re swimming or sweating and to put more on every two hours. It’s important to put on your sunscreen about 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
There Are Various Kinds of Sunscreen
You can find two types of sunscreens: physical, also known as mineral and chemical. UV rays from the sun are taken in by both types of sunscreen to protect your skin and physical sunscreen may also reflect some of those rays. Their effectiveness depends on the main ingredients they contain and is not measured by which system you choose.
Chemical screen protections often have avobenzone and homosalate, while physical ones include zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.
The American Cancer Society recommends sunscreen but advises people to use additional methods, like putting on protective clothing, finding shade and avoiding tanning beds to protect your skin over the long term.
The easiest way to choose sunscreen is to go for something you’ll be happy to put on day after day. Your skin tone may pair well with some sunscreens instead of others and some have better smells for you than others. Don’t worry, there’s a great choice out there for you.
How do I know if I’m using the right amount of SPF?
What your sunscreen protects from: SPF describes the level of protection a sunscreen gives to your skin. As an example, SPF 30 defends your skin against 97% of UVB rays, SPF 50 guards against 98% and SPF 100 can help protect you against about 99%.
Doing a higher SPF means greater sun protection. Really, is using SPF 100 sunscreen the best choice? Not exactly. Most people seem to get adequate sun protection from using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Even if you use a higher SPF, the real difference in protection isn’t very much. Using SPF 100 could make you think you are safe longer, so you stay in the sun longer than needed. You need to properly use your sunscreen, not only pick one with a strong SPF.
Apply plenty of sunscreen on your body 15 minutes before stepping out and reapply it every two hours if you are swimming or feeling sweaty. The right sunscreen worn often can help you enjoy the outdoors and keep your skin from being damaged.
Sun protection for my children
We often hear that sunscreen absolutely must be worn every day, but what about skin protection for your children? Because their skin is more sensitive, children are more likely to suffer sun damage than adults. Which type of sunscreen should you use on your child? When do you recommend that your kids apply sunblock?
Sunscreen is essential for children’s safety, doctors say. Wearing sun protection from an early age helps protect your skin, avoid sunburn and lower your risk of getting skin cancer as you age.
A resource for parents that teaches them how to guide their children with sunscreen:
Until a baby reaches 6 months, stop the use of sunscreen and stick to shading, hats and protecting clothing alone.
Use sunscreen without hesitation on individuals who are 6 months old and up.
Look for sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide; choose those that are comfortable on the skin and protect you well.
Choose sunscreen that offers high protection, protects against all UV rays and does not include fragrance.
Use creams or lotions (not sprays) to ensure even coverage.
Water-resistant options are ideal for outdoor play or swimming.
Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after sweating/swimming.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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