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Your best defence

Forget anti-wrinkle creams – this summer’s hottest beauty must-have is sunscreen. It’s no longer a question of “Should I wear it?” Ask yourself how to maximise its efficiency. Here’s how:

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  1. Choose a sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
  1. Choose a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
  1. Apply your sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days.This gives it time to soak in and activate.
  1. How much should you apply? More than you think. The average adult needs enough sunscreen to almost fill a shot glass.
  1. You can use the same sunscreen for your face and body, but if you’re prone to break-outs, use one formulated for the face.
  1. If you’re lazing around outside, reapply sunscreen every two hours, regardless of the level of SPF. If you are doing something more active, causing you to work up a bit of a sweat, reapply every half hour.
  1. Always use a protective lip balm – your lips contain no melanin and burn easily.
  1. Be aware that certain medications can dramatically increase sun sensitivity. Pregnancy can also cause increased sun sensitivity in some women.
  1. Whenever possible, avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm during the months of daylight saving – even if you’re wearing sunscreen.
  1. Don’t forget the kids. Studies show 80% of sun damage to skin is acquired before the age of 18. Every time a child is sunburned it significantly increases their chances of getting skin cancer later in life.

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