Prevent Sunburns During Outdoor Activities: Always Apply Sunscreen
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are the leading cause of skin cancer, and excessive exposure can lead to age-related vision changes, sunburn, and skin damage. To ensure proper protection, it's essential to choose the right sunscreen and apply it correctly, especially during outdoor activities, exercise, and extended sun exposure.
Choose SPF 30 or higher
Opt for a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, providing robust protection. Higher SPF can offer more protection, especially for fair skin or longer exposure.
Look for broad-spectrum protection
Select a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, harmful to skin health.
Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure
Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. This allows the UV filters to absorb into the skin and form an effective barrier. Applying right before or during exposure reduces effectiveness.
Use enough sunscreen
Roughly one fluid ounce (about a shot glass full) is recommended to cover the entire body adequately. Insufficient amounts drastically reduce protection.
Cover easy-to-miss areas
Don't forget to cover easy-to-miss areas such as ears, lips, around eyes, tops of feet, behind knees, armpits, under swimsuit straps, and exposed scalp areas.
Reapply sunscreen frequently
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after sweating heavily, swimming, or towel drying. This is critical during outdoor exercise or long sun exposure since sunscreen wears off due to sweat and water.
Wear additional sun protection
Protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses enhance defense against the sun, especially during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Plan outdoor activities to avoid peak sun intensity
Plan outdoor activities to avoid peak sun intensity when possible. Early morning or late afternoon sun is less intense and reduces the risk of damage.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your sunscreen is effective in protecting your skin during outdoor activities, exercise, and extended sun exposure, helping to prevent sunburn, skin damage, and potential health issues. Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you will actually use consistently.
[1] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). How to Apply Sunscreen. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer/learn-about-skin-cancer/prevention-and-early-detection/how-to-apply-sunscreen
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). How to apply sunscreen. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sunscreen/art-20045675
[3] Skincancer.org. (2021). Sunscreen. Retrieved from https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/
[4] Skincare Physicians. (2021). Sunscreens. Retrieved from https://www.skincarephysicians.com/patient-library/6446/sunscreens/
- To maintain optimal health and wellness, opt for a lifestyle that incorporates the use of SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, offering robust protection against UV rays.
- For comprehensive skin care during outdoor-living, seek a broad-spectrum sunscreen to ensure protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Ensure thorough application of sunscreen, using at least one fluid ounce to cover all areas adequately, including easy-to-miss zones such as ears, lips, eyes, feet, knees, armpits, and scalp.
- For maximum protection during sports and exercise, reapply sunscreen every two hours, as well as after sweating, swimming, or towel drying, while also utilizing additional sun protection gear like protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. By doing so, you minimize the risk of skin cancer, sunburn, and other related issues.
