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:
- Choose a sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
- Apply your sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days.This gives it time to soak in and activate.
- How much should you apply? More than you think. The average adult needs enough sunscreen to almost fill a shot glass.
- 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.
- 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.
- Always use a protective lip balm – your lips contain no melanin and burn easily.
- Be aware that certain medications can dramatically increase sun sensitivity. Pregnancy can also cause increased sun sensitivity in some women.
- Whenever possible, avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm during the months of daylight saving – even if you’re wearing sunscreen.
- 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.