Sunscreen is something that you know you ought to be using pretty much every time you go out into the sun. If you know you’re going to be out for long periods of time, you know that you definitely need to be wearing it.
However, if you’re like a lot of people, actually putting on sunscreen is something that you know you should do, but you don’t actually do as often as you’re supposed to. For many people, it’s like getting those dental checkups every six months. You know you should, but for one reason or another, you just don’t.
This year, make sure you use your sunscreen and use it right. Keep reading to learn more about how to properly pick and apply sunscreen.
Know Your Skin
One of the biggest things people need to realize about sunscreen and sun exposure is that different skin tones don’t necessarily need different types of sunscreen. Of course, if you have very pale skin, you are more likely to burn than if your skin has much more melanin. That doesn’t mean that tan or darker-skinned individuals need less sun protection though.
In fact, everybody needs to wear sunscreen when they are exposed to the sun for long periods of time or even just a few minutes at a time. Why? Because even if you don’t visibly burn you can get skin damage that can lead to premature aging or skin cancer over a lifetime.
SPF Protection
There are a lot of different sunscreen manufacturers out there, but when you’re picking one, you need to choose a brand that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. These broad spectrum sunscreens are becoming easier and easier to find as people learn more about sun protection.
Once you find a brand that you like that works with your skin you should stick to it.
Applying Sunscreen
Before you step out in the sun, ideally about 15 to 30 minutes before, you should be applying some sort of sunscreen. You need to do this in order to keep your skin healthy.
If you have been exercising or swimming you should be reapplying your sunscreen regularly to avoid problematic exposure. If you haven’t been sweating or swimming, you should still reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes or so during long periods of exposure.
If you won’t be in the sun for more than a few minutes, SPF 15 moisturizer should protect the skin.