Sunscreens are important for protecting your skin from the sun's radiation. Without such protection you not only get sunburns but also risk developing melanoma,a dangerous form of skin cancer that appears as coloured marks on your skin.
According to a recent survey, however, many people do not really know how to use sunscreens effectively and how you can get the best protection.
About two thirds of those questioned said that creams and lotions with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 gives them twice as much protection than sun blockers with an SPF of 15. Many also think that sunscreens with a higher SPF protect them longer than those with a lower SPF.
But that is not true. A sunscreen with a higher SPF can keep out more damaging rays than lower SPFs can. An SPF of 15 blocks out about 93 % of all UVB rays while an SPF of 30 protects you from 97% of damaging radiation. Sunscreens never protect you completely, they only allow you to lengthen the time you can stay outdoors before you start developing a sunburn.
Medical experts and dermatologists offer important advice on what you should consider when going out in the sun:
Use sunscreens that block out both UVB and UVA radiation. While UVB rays are thought to be more dangerous UVA radiation leads to wrinkles and aging of the skin.
Apply sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30.
Do not wait until the sun comes out to use sunscreens. Use them in cloudy weather too.
Avoid going outside during the middle of the day when the sun's radiation is highest.
Wear protective clothing and stay in shady areas when possible.
Apply sunscreens to all parts of the body, including the neck, feet and other places that are hard to get to. Put them on your skin at least every 2 hours.
Be careful when going to indoor tanning studios. Studies have shown that too much exposure to sunlamps and other appliances increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
