Why is it important to use sunscreen?

Why is sunscreen important?

Ultraviolet rays, usually called UV rays, damage skin cells. UVA reaches deeper layers of skin, while UVB damages the outer layers and causes sunburn. Both contribute to skin aging and skin cancer. Sun damage is permanent, so sunscreen belongs in the prevention department, not the undo department.345

Sun protection matters for every skin tone. Naturally brown or black skin has some protection against UV rays, but people of all skin tones can develop skin cancer. A tan is a sign of UV injury, not good health, and a base tan does not prevent sunburn. Avoid tanning beds as well as intentional tanning outdoors.356

Do you need sunscreen on cloudy days?

UV rays reach you on cool and cloudy days and reflect off water, sand, concrete and snow. Check the local UV Index, which forecasts UV strength: at 3 or higher, protect exposed skin. Make sunscreen part of getting ready to go outdoors, including short trips. At higher latitudes, winter UV exposure can be low enough that sunscreen is not required every day; the local UV level matters more than the season's name.345

What should you look for on the label?

Look for broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. SPF measures UVB protection, so the biggest number on the bottle is not the whole job description. On UK labels, look for at least four stars for UVA protection; a UVA circle indicates the EU standard. Choose a sunscreen you will actually use and reapply, rather than one destined for a distinguished career in a drawer.246

How do you use sunscreen properly?

1. 1Apply sunscreen generously 30 minutes before going outdoors. Follow the product's directions. If you expect enough sun exposure to risk burning, UK guidance advises another application just before leaving.
2. 2Cover all exposed skin, including your face, ears, neck, hands and feet. Protect exposed scalp with sunscreen or a hat, and use lip balm with sunscreen.
3. 3Use enough. For an adult's whole body, aim for around 6 to 8 teaspoons. Applying a thin layer reduces protection.
4. 4Reapply at least every two hours while exposed to the sun, and straight after swimming, towel drying or sweating. Reapply if sunscreen rubs off.
5. 5Check water resistance and expiry information. Water resistance lasts for the labeled 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating; no sunscreen is waterproof.

No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation. Add shade, clothing that covers your arms and legs, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UVA and UVB. Do not extend your time in the sun because you are wearing sunscreen.347

Who needs extra care?

Take extra care if you burn easily, have many moles, have had skin cancer or have a family history of it. Some medicines increase sun sensitivity; ask your prescriber about sun precautions. If sunscreen ingredients irritate your skin, consider a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight and ask a health professional before applying sunscreen.467

Concerned about vitamin D? Trials of sunscreen used in real life have not shown vitamin D deficiency to be a problem. Oral supplements are an option if deficiency is a concern.5

Seek medical help for sunburn with severe swelling, blisters or feeling unwell. Report a new mole, growth or lump, or a patch that changes size, shape or colour, to your doctor promptly.6