07/01/2008 (By Larissa Walkiw)

The Skinny on Sunscreen

Now that we're in the middle of a hot Albertan summer, it's important that you protect your skin from the sun.

Many people use sunscreen to block out harmful UV rays – but what many people don't know is just how much sunscreen to use and when to apply it. The result: very weak protection from the sun.

Check out these sunscreen tips to get the most out of your SPF:

How much??! The most common mistake people make with sunscreen is that they apply too little of it. If you're applying sunscreen in a lotion form, you should be using (at least!) a golfball-sized blob. That's about 200 sprays if you're using a pump spray (and you thought rubbing lotion into your skin was a chore!), or 25 seconds of spraying if you're using a continuous spray.

Repeat Repeat Repeat. You probably already know that it's a good idea to reapply your sunscreen after getting a little sweaty or going for a swim. But did you know that you should be reapplying every two hours (yes, another golfball-sized amount!) to stay protected? The active ingredients in sunscreen start breaking down the moment you step outside, so reapplication is essential.

Out of proportion. Contrary to popular belief, SPF numbers do not increase proportionately – meaning SPF 30 does not have twice as much protection as SPF 15. Similarly, a thin layer of SPF 60 doesn't provide the same protection as a thick layer of SPF 30 (busted!).

When to apply. Believe it or not, you should apply your sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside. That way, your skin will have time to properly absorb the product. Instead of slapping on some lotion last minute, whip out the SPF earlier in your "getting ready routine".

Expiry Date? Just because that half-used bottle of sunscreen has been sitting in your cabinet all winter doesn't mean that it needs to be tossed. Although sunscreen does lose some quality when stored for long periods of time (like a year or so!), the change is extremely minimal. Year-old sunscreen is just as safe and effective as a new sunscreen.

You can leave your hat on. Don't leave all the work up to the lotions and the sprays! Hats and sunglasses are also great sunshields. Hats are great for protecting your scalp and the tops of your ears (popular burn magnets that are tricky to put lotion on!), and sunglasses will keep your eyes from getting sunburned (that's right – if your eyes feel dry and irritated at the end of the day, it's because they've been exposed to too much sun).

With so many sun products out on the market today, there is truly something for everyone. So do your research, do your shopping and mind these tips– your skin will surely thank you!

Don't forget to check in tomorrow for another summer tip!

Larissa

Comments

1) T - 07/02/2008

So I read your post in the morning and then proceeded to go to a Canada Day celebration with only a light coat of sunscreen and I forgot my sunglasses and hat. I am now red and squinting.