If you’re spending time outdoors, the chances are you’ve heard a caution or two about the importance of applying sunscreen.
While wearing sunscreen is superior to not wearing it, if you are faced with a choice, you should select a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum UV protection at a minimum of SPF 30. These guidelines are applicable to people of all skin tones. Ideally, you should apply sunscreen on your skin for 30 minutes before you go out in the sunlight.
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Do I Really Have to Cover My Body With Sunscreen Each Day?
Absolutely! No matter what the weather, whether it’s cold or hot… We should wear sunscreen regularly, as UV rays responsible for aging and skin cancer are everywhere, regardless of temperature or even clouds. The two UVA and UVB radiations are responsible for the development of skin cancer. UVA Rays penetrate further and are the main reason for premature aging and the destruction of the skin. UVB Rays are smaller in wavelength and cause skin to become burned. UVA radiations even penetrate through windows. Therefore, you could expose yourself to damaging UV radiation even if you’re driving or working at your desk for the entire day. UVA Rays stay at the same level throughout the day, whereas UVB radiations peak around the middle of the day. Even if you’re running through the day doing errands and sun damage is a result of your activities, it adds up!
Does Sunscreen Last Forever?
Most sunscreens are dated and shouldn’t be used beyond the time (usually three years after the date of manufacture). However, many variables could make the sunscreen less effective than intended, such as exposure to heat (leaving it near the pool, in hot cars, etc.). Chemical sunscreens generally contain ingredients such as oxybenzone or avobenzone that may oxidize and become less effective with time. Mineral sunscreens that have titanium or zinc are generally more stable. However, the formulation may degrade with time, leading to the dispersal of ingredients and leading the lotion to turn watery or grainy and, consequently, ineffective. In addition, frequently opening and closing the bottle may allow for the build-up of bacteria in the lotion, which can cause damage to the skin. If you’re using sunscreen in a proper manner (daily and applying it every two hours), It is recommended that you take care to go through the bottles ahead of the date of expiry. If it’s been more than a year without using similar sunscreens, you aren’t using enough!
How Often Should You Change Your Sunscreen?
If summer has passed, and you’re still not done with a bottle of sunscreen, then you haven’t applied it as often or often as you should! I suggest a tablespoon of it for the face and a full shot glass of body lotion every 2 hours, or more often if you sweat or swim (even when it claims to be water-resistant). There shouldn’t be any changes in the consistency. If you notice clumping or graininess, your sunscreen is probably not working to its full effectiveness. Also, if the bottle starts to smell odd, It could indicate an infection by bacteria. If in doubt, you should replace it.
What is The Difference Between SPF 50 and SPF 75?
The SPF number indicates the amount of time it takes for UVB radiation of the sun to cause UVB ultraviolet radiation to trigger redness on the skin when applying the sunscreen in the exact manner recommended against the time required without sunscreen. In the ideal scenario, 30 SPF would mean that it takes 30 times longer for skin to be burned when using no sunscreen. But, it is rare to see sunscreen applied as directed. Genetics also varies; therefore, one person may require more than SPF 30 to be protected compared to someone else. Studies have proven that people feel false impressions of security with higher SPFs, remain in the sun longer, and seldom apply. Many dermatologists advise everyone to use SPF 30 or greater. The sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going out and then reapplied every two hours or earlier when sweating or swimming. In addition, the SPF numbers aren’t linear, so SPF 100 will not be twice as effective as SPF 50. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 are protected against 97 percent UVB radiation, while an SPF of 45 is protected against 98 percent. Note that SPF is only a reference to UVB protection but not UVA. Always look for a sunscreen labeled broad spectrum (protects from both UVA and UVB radiations).
After How Long Should You Apply Again?
“Every Two hours, however, sooner if you swim or sweat (even when the product states they are water resistant). It is important to note that there is no waterproof product, and the products are no longer allowed to be advertised as water-resistant.”
What’s the least-known place where sunscreen can be applied?
The tops of your ears, the tops of your hands, and the tops of your feet. I also suggest Lip balms that have SPF and caps to shield hair (lots of cancers that affect the skin that affects older and younger people hide behind their hair).
What Do You Do If You Suffer From Sunburn?
Melanoma risk doubles when you’ve had over five sunburns! So, it would help if you are always clear of them. But, everyone is not flawless, and accidents do happen. It is important to cool the skin immediately with cold, damp towels or a refreshing shower. Apply a soothing moisturizer with aloe for a calming effect on the skin (nothing that is thick contains petrolatum, or is greasy, as these can keep heat in, which can worsen burning). Take immediately a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation. One percent of cream available over-the-counter for hydrocortisone can also help soothe the face (can be used twice a day). Drink plenty of fluids and water to replenish your body’s fluids and electrolytes. If you or your child is experiencing any chills, fevers, blisters, or appears confused, seek medical attention.
