- Choose a Broad Spectrum sunscreen. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes sunburns, sun damage, premature aging, and is the major risk factor for developing skin cancer. Broad Spectrum means that the sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protective Factor) of at least a 30+.
- Choose a physical (mineral) sunscreen containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These physical sunscreens block and scatter the UV rays before they penetrate the skin, providing better protection.
- Pay attention to labels. Water resistant is not waterproof. Some sunscreens are water resistant for only 40 minutes and others for 80 minutes, so timing of reapplication is important.
- Apply enough sunscreen to provide adequate protection. One ounce of sunscreen is the amount needed to cover sun exposed areas on the body and about a half teaspoon of sunscreen is required for the face and ears. Apply sunscreen daily, even when it is cloudy or if you will be indoors, as UVA rays can penetrate cloud cover and glass. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going outdoors and reapply every 2 hours throughout the day, or more frequently as directed on the bottle if sweating or swimming.
- Lastly, remember that sunscreen alone cannot fully protect you. It is still necessary to seek shade, wear wide-brimmed hats, sun-protective clothing, and sunglasses to help prevent skin cancer and sun damage. And be mindful of reflection near water, snow, and sand
Two of our preferred sunscreen brands are EltaMD and ISDIN, which are both broad spectrum, have an SPF rating of 30+, contain zinc oxide and feel light and smooth on the skin.