YES! Even when it's cloudy, or when you are just running a few errands, your skin is bombarded with UV radiation that leads to premature skin aging and increases the risk of skin cancer.
All sunscreens contain ingredients that filter UV rays. Some filters work by deflecting, scattering, and absorbing UV rays (also called "mineral" sunscreen), while others work by absorbing and neutralizing UV rays (also called "chemical” sunscreen).
What is the difference between a chemical and a mineral sunscreen?
All sunscreens contain ingredients that filter UV rays. Some filters work by deflecting, scattering, and absorbing UV rays (also called "mineral" sunscreen), while others work by absorbing and neutralizing UV rays (also called "chemical” sunscreen). Mineral sunscreens are also referred to as "physical" sunscreens and contain the active ingredient zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.
There are two types of UV rays: UVB and UVA. Both can play a part in skin cancer formation, premature skin aging, and other forms of skin damage. UVB rays penetrate the outer layer of the skin causing damage to skin cells and are the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. UVA rays can pass through window glass and penetrate deeper layers of the skin than UVB. UVA rays contribute to premature signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles, and skin cancer.
SPF stands for "Sun Protection Factor" and it's a measure of how much protection a sunscreen has against sunburn. Applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 30, for example, means that it will take 30 times longer for your skin to begin to burn than it would without sunscreen. A higher SPF can help provide greater sunburn protection, so be sure to choose a higher SPF.
Studies show that in real-world situations, high SPF protects better. A recent study shows that SPF 100+ provides significantly greater protection against sunburn than SPF 50+. Also, most people underapply their sunscreen so a higher SPF helps ensure you are getting the protection you need.
The best sunscreen is the one you'll love to wear so it's important to find one that feels good on the skin. Many formulations are out there, but choose one that's broad spectrum, and formulated with higher SPF to best protect from sunburn risk.
No - make sure to look for a sunscreen that says “broad spectrum”, meaning it protects from both UVB and UVA rays. Also, higher SPF sunscreens help protect better from the risk of sunburn.
What sunscreen should I use if I have sensitive skin?
Find a gentle sunscreen that is formulated with mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. In addition, choose a sunscreen that's free of fragrances and dyes.
Facial sunscreens are often formulated to aid in spreadability and may include additional benefits. Sweat-resistant protection, break-out free protection, hydration, and even antioxidants are offered in facial sunscreens.
If you have had challenges with sunscreens in the past, choose one that has been formulated to not clog pores, such as Neutrogena® Clear Face for break-out-free protection.
How much sunscreen do I need to apply per application?
In general, about a golf-ball-sized amount is needed for a full-body application, and a teaspoon for the face. Of course, this amount varies based on the size of an individual, so use this as general guidance. Apply liberally and a lot!
Yes, even if you are in the shade your skin is still being exposed to UV rays. On a cloudy day or when sitting in a room with the shades open but no direct sunlight, your skin is still being exposed to UV rays and you need to protect yourself.
Yes! Most people don’t realize that sunscreen ingredients degrade over time and lose their effectiveness. Make sure to check the expiration date, and be sure to store in a cool, dry place.
What else should I do to protect myself and my family from UV rays?
Make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Choose a daily moisturizer and cosmetics that include sun protection and follow the instructions carefully on how often and how much to apply. Also, wear hats, sunglasses, long sleeves, and pants in the sun or shade to protect against UV exposure.
I know I need to wear sunscreen, but I always forget to apply it. What can I do?
Keep your sunscreen where you'll remember to apply it every day before going outside—such as near your keys or toothbrush. Establishing sun safe habits may not be easy at first, but adding it to a sequence of steps you are already doing as part of your morning routine will make it easier to start using sunscreen every day.
What should I do if I notice an unusual brown spot on my skin?
Go to your dermatologist. With preventative skincare routines, the chance of sun damage to skin is reduced. If you notice any abnormal growths, see your dermatologist promptly. Most moles are harmless, but it is important to recognize changes in a mole and see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
No! Heat degrades the sunscreen ingredients over time and it won’t work. If your sunscreen has been exposed to heat, it's safest to get a new tube to be sure you are protected.
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