How should sunscreens be applied?
- Follow directions and shake the bottle before using.
- Thoroughly rub sunscreen over skin to make sure the coverage is even.
- Make sure all skin is covered (including neck, ears and lips).
- For people with thin or thinning hair, apply sunscreen to the scalp as well.
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How much should be applied?
- Sunscreen should be applied liberally and evenly to all exposed areas before sun or water exposure.
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When should I apply sunscreen?
- Before doing any outside activities.
- Whenever you're spending time outdoors—and not just in the pool! (for picnics, walks, hiking, riding in a car, etc)
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How often should sunscreen be applied?
- Reapply sunscreen after swimming, perspiring, and toweling off.
- Reapply sunscreen often!
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What Is SPF?
- "SPF" stands for "Sun Protection Factor."
- Indicates how much longer a person wearing sunscreen can stay in the sun before beginning to burn—than they would without using any sunscreen at all.
- SPF numbers generally range from 2 to 50.
- The American Academy of Dermatology and the Sun Safety Alliance (SSA) recommend an SPF of 15 or higher.
- For children, the SSA recommends sunscreen product with an SPF of 30.
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What strength of sunscreen is best?
- Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher whenever you're outdoors.
- For children under 6 years of age, the SSA recommends sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. Older children should use sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher.
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