Health & Nutrition

How to be sun savvy

Protect your skin this summer by remembering to use your sun smarts.

Updated:: 2009-10-18 23:43

Published:: 2004-06-05 00:00

By: Aileen Brabazon

How to use sunscreen

Here's how to use sunscreen correctly:

How and where: Generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care suggests creamy, white sunscreens should appear white on your skin after application. Put sunscreen on before makeup, and wear lipstick or lip balm with SPF 15 because both are good sunblocks. "One of the more serious forms of skin cancer can happen on the lip and spread to other organs," Rivers says.

When: Health Canada recommends applying sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside, and again 20 minutes after being outdoors. Then, reapply frequently, about every two to three hours, especially after sweating or swimming.

Which one: Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens, which offer UVA and UVB protection. Until recently, SPF 15 was recommended but, Rivers says, "we generally recommend [SPF] 30 now, because people don't put it on properly (which reduces protection)."

Protection plus:
While sunscreens are important, they don't offer complete protection from the sun. Here are other safety pointers, from the CDA and Canadian Cancer Society:

• Avoid sun exposure from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plan regular outdoor activities before or after that time frame. If you're out during the "dangerous hours," seek shade and cover up with clothing. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Consult the UV index year-round. When it climbs above three, take precautions, Rivers says. The higher the UV, the more protection necessary.
• Be weather wise. Rivers says that 80 per cent of UV rays can penetrate through light clouds and harm skin. As well, water, concrete and snow reflect the sun so be extra diligent with protection in those conditions.

You don't have to stay indoors all summer to be sun safe. Enjoy the season, but do so with sensibility and caution. Remember, protected skin today means healthier and more beautiful skin in the future.