How to use sunscreen

Using sun screen is an essential part of protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause skin damage, sunburn, and increase your risk of skin cancer. To help protect your skin, it’s important to use sunscreen regularly, especially when spending time outdoors. Here are the steps to follow when using sunscreen:

  1. Choose the right SPF: Sunscreen is available in different SPF levels, which indicate the level of protection it provides against UV rays. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. For most people, an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. If you have fair skin or are prone to sunburn, you may want to choose a higher SPF. It’s also important to consider the length of time you’ll be spending in the sun when choosing an SPF.
  2. Clean and dry your skin: Before applying sunscreen, make sure your skin is clean and dry. This will help ensure that the sunscreen is absorbed properly and is most effective.
  3. Apply enough sunscreen: To get the full benefit of the sunscreen, it’s important to apply enough. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using about one ounce (or a shot glass full) of sunscreen for every application. This should be enough to cover your entire body if you are wearing a swimsuit. Make sure to apply the sunscreen evenly to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and the tops of your feet.
  4. Rub it in: Once you’ve applied the sunscreen, take the time to rub it in thoroughly. This will help ensure that it’s fully absorbed and that you are getting maximum protection. Pay special attention to areas that are particularly exposed, such as your nose and the top of your shoulders.
  5. Reapply regularly: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. If you are spending a lot of time in the sun, consider reapplying more frequently.
  6. Protect your lips: Don’t forget to protect your lips from the sun’s damaging rays. Use a lip balm with SPF or a lip sunscreen specifically formulated to protect your lips.
  7. Wear protective clothing: In addition to using sunscreen, it’s important to wear protective clothing and a hat to help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during the hottest part of the day, which is typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  8. Be aware of the expiration date: Sunscreen does have an expiration date, and it’s important to use it before it becomes expired. Expired sunscreen may not be as effective, and it could even cause skin irritation. Make sure to check the expiration date on your bottle of sunscreen before each use.

Using sunscreen is an important step in protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. By following these simple steps, you can help prevent sunburn, skin damage, and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Remember to choose a sunscreen with the right SPF for your skin type and the length of time you’ll be spending in the sun, apply enough to cover all exposed skin, reapply regularly, protect your lips, and wear protective clothing and a hat. With these simple steps, you can help keep your skin safe and healthy.