We all know the importance of keeping our skin safe from the sun. With Summer right around the corner keep this bit of information in mind!
- Use Enough: Apply about 1 ounce to cover your entire body, or use the "two-finger" rule for your face.
- Timing: Apply 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors so it can properly absorb.
- Reapply: Reapply at least every 2 hours. Do this immediately after swimming, heavy sweating, or toweling off.
- Choose Wisely: Opt for a "broad-spectrum" formula with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Travel limits: If flying, carry-on liquids must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less.
Choosing the Right Formula
- Broad-Spectrum: This ensures you are protected from both UVA rays (which cause premature aging) and UVB rays (which cause sunburns).
- Water-Resistant: If you are swimming or sweating, check the label for 40- or 80-minute water-resistance claims.
- Expiration Dates: Sunscreen loses its potency over time. Always check the expiration date on the bottle. If it lacks one, the FDA recommends treating it as expired after 3 years.
Application Best Practices
- Don't Forget the Details: Ensure you cover easy-to-miss spots like the tops of your feet, ears, back of the neck, and lips (using an SPF lip balm).
- Daily Use: UV rays can pass through clouds. Apply sunscreen daily, even on overcast or rainy days.
- Infants: The Skin Cancer Foundation advises keeping babies under 6 months out of the sun entirely rather than using sunscreen.
Travel and Flight Guidelines
- Carry-On: You can bring sunscreen in your carry-on bag, but liquid containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller and fit into a single quart-sized bag.
- Checked Bags: Larger sunscreens can go in your checked luggage, but aerosols and sprays are subject to specific TSA total volume limits per person.
