Sun Protection Tips

STEPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN

1. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF)of at least 15-30 on all exposed skin, including the lips, even on cloudy days
2. Use a water resistant sunscreen when swimming or with excessive sweating
3. Reapply sunscreen frequently
4. Wear protective, tightly woven clothing (see below)
5. Wear a broad brimmed hat and sun glasses
6. Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day to avoid peak sunlight hours between 10am-4pm
7. Stay in the shade when possible
8. Protect your children
9. Avoid tanning beds

When in the sun, CLOTHES ARE THE BEST PROTECTION. Sunscreen should only be used as a supplement to a broad hat (3–4 inch brim) and a shirt. Most fabrics that cannot be seen through will give reasonable protection, but the new micro fiber nylons are very sun protective. Many companies offer a variety of sun protective clothing and accessories.

SUN PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

• Sun Precautions
• Radicool Australia
• Divers Direct
• Sun Proof
• Dermatone for protective lip cream that is chemical-free

SUNSCREENS ALSO OFFER EXCELLENT PROTECTION

Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, because most people use only a third to half the amount of sunscreen needed to get the rated SPF factor. When applying sunscreen you need more than you think: Use ½ teaspoon on each of the following body areas
1) Head and Neck
2) right arm
3) left arm.

Use more than a teaspoon on each of these body areas
1) chest and abdomen
2) right leg
3) left leg

Use only sunscreens that are broad spectrum. These will block both UVB and UVA sun rays. The SPF rating is based on the UVB (causes sunburn and skin cancer) blocking ability. To be broad spectrum, a sunscreen must contain a good UVA (causes wrinkling, mottling and skin cancer) block such as AVOBENZONE (Parasol 1789) which is clear or ZINC OXIDE or TITANIUM DIOXIDE, which are slightly whitening. Some excellent choices of broad spectrum sunscreens are Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, Coppertone Sport, Ombrelle 30, Vanicream, and Neutrogena 30 for Sensitive Skin. There are other sunscreens that are also great choices. Just remember to get a broad spectrum sunscreen and to apply the proper amount.

Have fun this summer. Be safe by following the above sun protection tips.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

SUN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY

Have fun in the sun and follow several important Sun Safety Tips
Sun Safety Database

MORE INFORMATION ON SUNSCREENS

The Naked Truth about Sunscreen 1
The Naked Truth about Sunscreen 2
Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

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