Long, lazy summer days don’t have to end up in painful, sunburnt nights — as long as you take these sunscreen application tips to heart…
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates how long it will take for UVB rays – the main cause of sunburn – to redden the skin. So, SPF 15 means it will take 15 times longer for “protected” skin to redden than it would without it. This has nothing to do with UVA rays, the same rays emitted by tanning booths. UVA rays penetrate more deeply and play a significant role in both accelerating the signs of skin aging and generating skin cancer. To best protect skin, you need to keep both types of harmful rays at bay so be sure to buy a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Generally speaking, creams and lotions tend to deliver better protection than sprays. In order to achieve the protection factor indicated on the package,the American Academy of Dermatology recommends a “liberal use” of SPF 30 (imagine a shot glass full) for the body and a teaspoon’s worth for the face.
Always apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading out into the sun and, in order to prevent a lapse in coverage, reapply every two hours no matter what, as well as immediately after swimming.
Protecting your skin does not mean you have to spend sunny days locked indoors! All it takes is a little skin/sun sense.