Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Choosing sunscreen
• Part 2 of 3: Apply sunscreen
• Part 3 of 3: Safe in the sun
• Tips
• Warnings

You probably know to put on sunscreen when you go to the beach. However, dermatologists recommend that you always put on sunscreen if you're going outside for more than 20 minutes, even in winter. You should also use sunscreen if it is cloudy or if you stay in the shade. The sun's UV (ultraviolet) rays cause damage to your skin after just 15 minutes! This damage can even cause skin cancer.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Choosing sunscreen

1. Look at the number after SPF. "SPF" stands for "sun protection factor", or how effectively the product blocks UVB rays. The SPF factor represents the time it takes for you to burn if you have anointed as opposed to when you have not applied.
   • For example, factor SPF30 means that you can stay in the sun 30 times longer than if you had not applied before you burn. So if you normally get sunburnt after 5 minutes, you can now stay outside for 150 minutes (30 x 5) before you burn. But your unique skin, your activities, and the power of the sun all determine how effective the sunscreen is, so you may need to apply more often than other people.
   • The SPF factor can be a bit misleading as the protection does not increase proportionally. SPF60 is therefore not twice as good as SPF30. SPF15 blocks about 94% of all UVB rays, SPF30 blocks about 97% and SPF45 blocks about 98%. There is no sunscreen that blocks 100% of UVB rays.
   • Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with a factor of SPF30 or higher. The difference between the products with an extremely high factor is usually negligible, so they are not worth the extra money.
2. Choose a sunscreen with a "broad spectrum". SPF only stands for the ability to block UVB rays, which cause sunburn. But the sun also gives off UVA rays. UVA rays cause damage to the skin, such as skin aging, wrinkles, and dark or light spots. Both types of rays increase the risk of skin cancer. A broad spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
   • Some sunscreens do not state on the packaging that they protect against a broad spectrum. However, it must always be stated whether it is against UVB- and UVA rays protects.
   • Most broad spectrum sunscreens contain organic ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc, as well as inorganic ingredients such as avobenzone, cinoxate, oxybenzone or octyl methoxycinnamate.
3. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Since your body excretes moisture in the form of sweat, it is better to use a water-resistant sunscreen. This is especially important if you are very active, such as walking or swimming.
   • No sunscreen is completely waterproof or "sweatproof". That should therefore not be stated on the packaging.
   • Even waterproof sunscreen should be reapplied every 40 to 80 minutes or according to the directions on the package.
4. Think about what you want. Some people like a spray sunscreen, while others prefer a thick cream or gel. Whatever you choose, make sure to apply it thickly and evenly. Application is just as important as the SPF factor and other factors: if you don't apply it properly, the sunscreen won't work.
   • A spray is especially good for hairy parts of the body, while a cream is usually best for dry skin. Sunscreen with alcohol and gels are good for oily skin.
   • You can also buy sunscreen in the form of a stick, which is pleasant to use around the eyes. Often times, this is the right choice for children as it prevents the sunscreen from getting into the eyes. Another advantage is that it cannot drain (in your bag for example) and that you can apply it without getting lotion on your hands.
   • Water-resistant "sports" sunscreen is usually tacky, so it doesn't work well under your makeup.
   • If you have acne, you should pay close attention to which sunscreen you choose. Get one that's especially for the face and won't clog pores. Usually these products have a higher factor (higher than SPF15) and do not cause breakouts.
     • In people with acne, sunscreen with zinc oxide in it seems to work best.
     • Look for a product that says it won't clog pores, that it's for sensitive skin, or for those with acne.
5. Go home and smear a little on your wrist. If you find yourself having an allergic reaction to the product, buy a different sunscreen. Repeat the process until you find the right sunscreen, or ask your doctor about a good product if you have sensitive or allergic skin.
   • Itching, redness, burning, or blisters are all signs of an allergic reaction. Titanium oxide and zinc oxide are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Part 2 of 3: Apply sunscreen

1. Look at the expiration date. Sunscreen will last for up to three years from the date of manufacture. However, always look at the expiration date. If it has passed, throw the bottle away and buy new sunscreen.
   • If your product does not have an expiration date, write the date on the bottle with a permanent marker once you purchase it. Then at least you know how long you have had the product.
   • Obvious changes in the product, such as color change, separation or a different consistency, are signs that the sunscreen is no longer good.
2. Apply it before going out. The substances in the sunscreen have to take effect for a while before they protect your skin. So bring the sunscreen before you go out the door already on.
   • Apply your skin 30 minutes before you go out in the sun. Lip sunscreen should be applied 45-60 minutes in advance.
   • The sunscreen must be completely absorbed to be effective. This is especially important with a water resistant product. If you put on sunscreen and jump right into the pool, most of the protection will be lost.
   • This is also very important when you are caring for a child. Children are usually wobbly and impatient, and often worse when they feel like an outing; who can stop when the sea is so close? So put on the sunscreen at home, in the parking lot or at the bus stop.
3. Use enough. One of the biggest mistakes when using sunscreen is not using enough. Adults need about 30 ml - a full palm - to cover the entire body.
   • Squeeze a generous amount of sunscreen into your palm. Spread it on all skin exposed to the sun. Rub the sunscreen well into the skin until it is no longer white.
   • To apply a spray, hold the bottle upright and go back and forth over your skin. Apply an even, thick coat. Make sure the spray is not blown off by the wind before it hits your skin. Do not inhale the sunscreen. Be careful with a spray on the face, especially with children.
4. Apply sunscreen to all skin. Don't forget your ears, neck, rubs, and hands, as well as your hair parting. All skin exposed to the sun should be smeared with sunscreen.
   • It can be difficult to smear hard-to-reach areas such as your back. Ask someone else to smear those spots.
   • Thin clothing often does not provide enough sun protection. A white T-shirt, for example, only has an SPF factor of 7. Wear clothing made to block UV rays, or apply sunscreen under your clothes.
5. Don't forget your face. Your face needs even more protection than the rest of your body because skin cancer is most common on the face, especially on or around the nose. Some cosmetics or facial cream contains sunscreen. But if you go outside for more than 20 minutes, you should use a special sunscreen for the face.
   • Many facial sunscreens come in the form of a cream or lotion. If you are using a spray, spray it on your hands first and then put it on your face. Avoid spraying the sunscreen directly on the face.
   • On the website of Dr. Jetske Ultee has a list of recommended sunscreens for the face.
   • Use a lip balm with at least SPF15.
   • If you are bald or have thin hair, put sunscreen on your head as well. You can also wear a cap or hat against the burn.
6. Reapply the sunscreen after 15 to 30 minutes. Research shows that your skin is better protected if you apply again after 15-30 minutes than if you wait 2 hours.
   • After you reapply for the first time, apply the sunscreen every 2 hours or as directed on the label.

Part 3 of 3: Safe in the sun

1. Stay in the shade. Even wearing sunscreen will expose you to the sun's powerful rays. Staying in the shade or sitting under an umbrella will protect you from sun damage.
   • Avoid the "peak hours". The sun is most powerful between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If possible, stay out of the sun. While outside, try to stay in the shade.
2. Wear protective clothing. Not all clothes are the same. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants protect your skin from the sun. Wear a hat or cap to shade your face and protect your scalp.
   • Choose tightly woven fabrics and dark colors, which offer the most protection. People who spend a lot of time outdoors can purchase special clothing with built-in sun protection from outdoor stores or on the Internet.
   • Don't forget your sunglasses! The sun's UV rays can cause cataracts, so buy sunglasses that block UVB and UVA rays.
3. Keep young children out of the sun. Exposure to the sun, especially between 10 am and 2 pm, is especially harmful to young children. Buy a sunscreen that is especially suitable for young children and babies. Consult your doctor if you want to find out what is best for your child.
   • Babies 6 months and younger should not be applied with sunscreen yet, and should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The skin of young babies is not yet strong enough and can absorb too much of the chemicals from the sunscreen. If you do go out with a young baby, keep him in the shade.
   • If your baby is over 6 months old, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least factor SPF30. Be careful when applying the sunscreen around the eyes.
   • Young children put on protective clothing, such as a hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and thin long pants.
   • Give your child sunglasses with UV protection.

Tips

• Buy special sunscreen for your face. If you have oily skin or breakouts easily, look for a product that is oil-free and won't clog pores. There are also special products for sensitive skin.
• Do not stay in the sun for too long, even if you have anointed yourself.
• Reapply the sunscreen if you get wet, every 2 hours, or as the package states. You won't be done in one go with sunscreen.

Warnings

• There is no safe way to sunbathe.UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer. A nice tan may look nice, but it's not worth risking your life for.