Many people apply sunscreen the wrong way. Learn how to maximize your sun protection by applying sunscreen properly.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
- Fifteen to 30 minutes prior to going outdoors, apply sunscreen to areas of the body that will be exposed to the sun. You need to give the product time to be absorbed into the skin.
- Enlist the help of a friend to apply sunscreen to the areas of the body that you may not be able to reach like the back.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen to areas that are commonly neglected, like the ears, face, hands, neck, and feet.
- Every two hours, reapply sunscreen. Reapply after going into the water, even if sunscreen is "waterproof" or "water resistant." Waterproof and water-resistant sunscreens only offer 40 to 80 minutes of protection. It is essential to read the sunscreen label for exact times because every manufacturer is different.
- Use sunscreen daily in all types of weather. The skin is still susceptible to the damaging rays of the sun during cloudy days as well. It needs to be applied during winter months, too.
Source:
"Sunscreen Once a Day". My Planner. American Cancer Society. 19 Dec 2005. Accessed 28 June 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_11_1_Sunscreen_Once_A_Day_Myth.asp.
What You Need:
- Sunscreen of your choice
