What is a Sunscreen?

A sunscreen is…

• Anything that protects the skin from UV radiation. For example, umbrellas, hats and clothing.
  
  
• Any lotions, oils and/or creams that help to protect the skin from UV radiation. For example:

1. Sun blocks create a barrier that reflect UV light away from the skin (ex: zinc oxide)
   
   
2. Sunscreens absorb the UV rays and help to prevent penetration through the skin

CAUTION: Quick tanning products or 'self-tanner's', which give your skin a tanned colour without sun exposure, DO NOT protect the skin from UV radiation.

What does SPF stand for?

• S.P.F. stands for Sun Protection Factor. It refers to a product’s ability to stop your skin from burning. Different sunscreens have different levels of SPF ranging from 2 – 70, and therefore vary in their ability to protect the skin from sun damage.
  
  
• The higher the SPF rating, the more it will protect your skin and the longer you are able to stay in the sun before burning.

CAUTION: Even when using a sunscreen, skin may still tan because all sunscreens allow some UV radiation to penetrate the skin.

Choosing and Using Sunscreens

Choosing:

• Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
  
  
• People who are fair-haired and fair-skinned are more likely to burn and should therefore use a higher SPF sunscreen.
  
  
• Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. You can also look for products that have been approved by the Canadian Dermatology Association.
  
  
• See Also: Sun Safety for Children 

Using:

For best results, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the bottle.

• In general, apply the sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outside to give the sunscreen a chance to start working.
  
  
• Apply sunscreen generously. Don't be afraid to use too much! For example, if you are using a white cream, it should appear white on the skin. Do NOT rub it in - let it soak in!
  
  
• Be sure to cover all exposed skin including the ears, nose and neck. Don’t forget to apply an SPF 15 lip screen to the lips.
  
  
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hrs, or more often if sweating or swimming. Also, when sweating or swimming make sure to use a waterproof sunscreen.

CAUTION:

• Make sure your skin is dry when applying sunscreen, or it will roll off and will not be effective.
  
  
• Many people make the mistake of not using enough sunscreen.