Enjoying Outdoor Exercises and Games? Never Neglect Sun Protection with Sunscreen
Protecting Your Skin in the Sun: A Comprehensive Guide
Staying safe in the sun is crucial for preventing skin cancer and other sun-related issues. Here are some best practices to follow when it comes to sunscreen application.
Amount to apply
When applying sunscreen, it's essential to use enough product. Aim for about a shot glass full (approximately 1 ounce or 30 mL) to cover your entire body. For the face and neck alone, about two finger-lengths' worth of sunscreen is recommended. Many people apply too little, which reduces effectiveness.
Timing
Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to allow it to bind properly. This gives the sunscreen time to create a protective barrier on your skin.
Frequency of reapplication
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. For prolonged outdoor activities, frequent reapplication is crucial, especially with water-resistant formulas.
SPF level
Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays. Higher SPFs like SPF 50 or even SPF 100 provide slightly more protection (up to 99%), which may be beneficial during intense or prolonged sun exposure.
Types of sunscreens
- Water-resistant sunscreens are preferred for outdoor activities involving water or sweating.
- Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to cause irritation and reflect UV rays physically; good for sensitive skin.
- Spray sunscreens are convenient but must be applied liberally and rubbed in well to ensure coverage; spraying alone is often insufficient.
- Moisturizers with SPF can be suitable for everyday moderate exposure but are usually not enough for extended outdoor activities where dedicated, higher-SPF sunscreens are recommended.
Don’t forget to protect often-missed areas
Remember to protect often-missed areas such as ears, neck, tops of feet, scalp where hair parts, back of knees, eyelids, lips, and other vulnerable spots.
Additional protection
Wear clothing with UPF ratings, wide-brimmed hats, and seek shade to complement sunscreen use. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing with 30 UPF or higher for protection.
For optimal sun safety
In summary, apply about 1 ounce of SPF 30+ sunscreen 15–30 minutes prior to outdoor exposure, reapply every two hours or after water/sweat exposure, and choose water-resistant and broad-spectrum formulas suited to your activity level. Combine with protective clothing and shade for optimal sun safety.
Regardless of your skin type, it's essential to prioritise sun protection. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen, as most formulas are good for about three years. A broad-spectrum sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Particularly on water, UV light exposure to the eye can accelerate age-related vision changes, so don't forget to protect your eyes with UV-protection sunglasses. Stay safe and enjoy the sun!
- For optimal health and skin care, prioritize using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, especially for prolonged outdoor activities.
- Incorporate outdoor-living activities like gardening or exercising outdoors into your health-and-wellness routine, but always remember to apply sunscreen and seek additional protection such as clothing with UPF ratings and wide-brimmed hats.
- To maintain a lifestyle that balances outdoor activities with sun protection, make it a habit to reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
- For people with sensitive skin, consider using mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as they are less likely to cause irritation compared to other types of sunscreens.
