Maximize Your Sunscreen

Focused on Health - May 2008

When purchasing sunscreen, do you ever wonder which SPF is best? Most people want to get the best protection possible from their sunscreen. Because of the wide selection of sunscreens available today, sometimes making the right choice can be a confusing task.

Choose SPF 30

A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is a good choice for most people. It’s important to remember that the protection an SPF offers does not increase proportionately with the designated SPF number. For example, SPF 15 absorbs 93% of the sun’s burning rays, while SPF 30 absorbs 97%

Apply a Shot Glass of Sunscreen

One ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) is considered sufficient to properly cover sun-exposed areas of the body for most adults.

Sun’s Rays Cause More Than Just Cancer

Sunscreen protects the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays produced by the sun.

The sun’s two harmful rays are:

Ultraviolet B (UVB) – ray intensity varies throughout the year
Ultraviolet A (UVA) – rays remain intense throughout the year and all day long

UVB and UVA exposure may cause:

Skin cancer
Premature aging of the skin
Harm to the eyes and immune system

Proper Application Equals Maximum Benefit

To get the most out of your sunscreen, generously reapply through the day. This is especially important because factors such as humidity, perspiration and uneven product application can cause sunscreen to lose its effectiveness.