Proper sunscreen use is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn, aging, and skin cancer. Here's what you need to know to choose the best sunscreen and use it effectively.

Key Facts About Sunscreen

Who Needs It? Everyone 6 months and older should use sunscreen on exposed skin, even on cloudy days.

SPF Ratings:
- SPF 30: Blocks 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50: Blocks 98%.
- SPF 100: Blocks 99%.
- Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating.

Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose sunscreens labeled broad-spectrum to protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.

How Experts Test Sunscreens

SPF Testing: Applied sunscreen is tested on panelists’ backs with UV exposure, followed by water immersion for 40-80 minutes based on claims. Redness after UV exposure determines SPF effectiveness.

UVA Protection: Measured using UV light on treated plastic plates.

Sensory Evaluation: A panel evaluates scent, texture, and residue to ensure consumer-friendly products.

Types of Sunscreens

• Chemical Sunscreens: Contain ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone.
• Effective but may raise concerns about absorption into the bloodstream.
• Avoid oxybenzone for children; opt for alternatives.
• Mineral Sunscreens: Use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
• Safer but may not perform as well in tests.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

SPF 30 or Higher: Ensures adequate UVB protection.

Water-Resistant: Lasts through 40-80 minutes of swimming or sweating.

Check for Broad-Spectrum: Blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Avoid Benzene Contamination: Opt for lotions, as sprays may have contaminants like benzene.

How to Apply Sunscreen

Shake Well: Ensures even distribution of ingredients.

Use Enough: About a shot glass (1 ounce) for your whole body. - Teaspoon per body part (e.g., face, each arm, each leg).

Don’t Miss Spots: Include lips, ears, back of the neck, tops of feet, and scalp.

Reapply: Every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.

Spray Sunscreens: Spray 4-6 inches away, rub in, and avoid direct sprays to the face. Spray into hands and apply to children.

Sunscreen Ingredients to Consider

• Avoid Oxybenzone & Octinoxate: Linked to hormone disruption and environmental harm.
• Mineral Sunscreens: Safe and reef-friendly, but may leave a white cast.

Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen

• Shade: Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and tightly woven fabrics.
• Behavior: Use sunscreen as a last line of defense with proper sun habits.

By combining effective sunscreen with smart sun practices, you can enjoy the outdoors safely.

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