SUN SAFETY GUIDE & TIPS

WHY DO WE APPLY SUNSCREEN?

To help protect our skin from invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, namely UVA and UVB rays. UVC rays are short wavelength and do not reach the earth's surface.

 

WHAT DOES BROAD SPECTRUM MEAN?

We hear this term all the time but what does it actually mean? Simply put, broad spectrum means that the sunscreen protects from the sun's damaging UVA (aging) rays and UVB (burning) rays. Both UVA and UVB exposure can cause cancer and abroad spectrum sunscreen is your best defense.

 

WHAT DOES SPF MEAN?

The SPF – or “sun protection factor” – number on a sunscreen’s label is a guide to the product’s level of sunburn protection.

In general, the SPF number indicates how much longer you can stay exposed to the sun before getting sunburned when wearing sunscreen, as opposed to without sunscreen.

For example, it takes 15 times longer to burn with sunscreen SPF 15 than without sunscreen. However, whatever the SPF number, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours after swimming or sweating, and towel drying.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UVA AND UVB RAYS?

UVA rays constitute approximately 90-95% of the rays that reach the Earth:

  • Long wavelength (320-400 nm)
  • Are weaker than UVB rays, but penetrate more deeply into the skin's layers.
  • Can contribute to signs of premature aging, such as wrinkles, as well as skin cancer and tanning.

UVB rays make up about 5-10% of the rays that reach us:

  • Short wavelengths (290-320)
  • Affects the skin's outer layer
  • Are the primary cause of sunburns, skin cancer, premature skin aging, and tanning.
  • The intensity of UVB varies by season, location and time of day.

SUN EXPOSURE

Sun exposure is responsible for up to 90% of the visible signs of skin aging. No product will block all rays. However, sunscreen ingredients can absorb, reflect or scatter UV rays before they can penetrate into your skin.

Any tan is a sign of skin damage! You can still enjoy the sun, but be sure to limit your amount of direct exposure and help protect your skin as much as possible. Moderation is key.

CLOUDY DAYS AND WINTERS

 A common misconception is that we are safe from UVA rays in the winter or if we are sitting indoors or in the shade. The truth is that UVA rays are present during all daylight hours and even throughout the winter months. Even on a cloudy day in the winter, 90% of UVA rays can  penetrate through the clouds. These are the most deceptive, as we’re less likely to wear sunscreen when we don’t see the sun.

TIMING

Wearing a higher sunscreen SPF does not mean you do not need to reapply. You should reapply sunscreen every two hours, regardless of the SPF and after swimming, sweating or towel drying.

Seek the shade during peak hours between 10AM and 2PM. Remember, the longer you are out in the sun, the more exposed you are to UV rays!

KIDS

Kids spend a lot of time outdoors, often in and out of water. When selecting sunscreen for their children, parents should look for products that are broad spectrum, water resistant for 80 minutes, and always follow reapplication instructions. It is recommended that kids use a secondary form of protection such as long sleeve shirts, pants, hats and sunglasses.

WHICH SPF TO USE

Select the SPF based on your skin type and the amount of time you will spend outdoors. Reapply as directed for adequate protection.

BROWSE BY SPF

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN PRODUCT

Determine the sunscreen SPF protection you need based on your skin type, location and activity.
 
UV rays are strongest as you near the Equator, and the higher the elevation, the greater your exposure.
 
If you have fair skin, as well as light-colored eyes and hair, your're likely to burn more easily when exposed to UV rays.
 
Many dermatologists recommend using a product with minimum SPF 30, which can help protect you from approximately 97% of the sun’s harmful rays.

For protection against UVB and UVA rays, look for the words "broad spectrum" on the product label.

Don't forget to check your local UV index and weather forecast!

APPLY SUNSCREEN

EVERYDAY, ALL YEAR ROUND

Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.

Remember that UV rays can penetrate clouds, and that concrete, sand, water and snow reflect them back to you!

  • Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
  • Cover all exposed areas. Don't forget ears, nose, the tops of feet and the backs of knees!
  • Use at least 30 mL (1 ounce) of sunscreen lotion to help protect an average-size body.
  • Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and after swimming, vigorous activity, sweating or toweling.

 

VITAMIN D

Sunscreen does not prevent your body from making Vitamin D. While it's true that sunscreens do help block out UV rays, no sunscreen blocks 100% of the Vitamin D-producing rays. To be sure that you are getting enough Vitamin D, ask your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement.

MEDICATIONS

Certain medications and conditions can increase sun sensitivity. Some medications, including certain antibiotics, birth control pills, anti-depressants and heart medications, can affect your sensitivity to the sun. Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your doctors.

FABRICS

Loosely-woven, see-through and/or wet fabrics generally provide minimal protection against UV rays. The protection delivered by fabric depends on its weave, thickness and color. Look for tightly-woven fabrics and dark colors. There are also new fabrics with specific UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) labels that provide even more sun protection.

SURFACES

Surfaces like concrete, sand, water and snow can reflect 85% of the sun's rays back at you.