How to Choose and Use a Sunscreen

Overexposure to the sun is linked not only to skin cancer, but also to painful sunburns and premature skin aging. One of the best ways people can protect themselves is by applying sunscreens and sun blocks.

Sunscreens are given sun-protection factor (SPF) ratings depending on the degree of protection. A product with an SPF of 15, for example, if properly applied should allow users to stay in the sun 15 times as long as they could without any protection.

Here are some tips for choosing and using a sunscreen:

* There are products with SPF ratings as low as 2, but experts recommend choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 15. Although products with higher SPFs are available, “most people aren’t out in the sun for longer than it takes to produce a sunburn through a sunscreen with an SPF of 15,” says Dr. John Epstein, a clinical professor of dermatology at UC San Francisco.

* Select a sunscreen that protects against both kinds of harmful ultraviolet light: UV-B and UV-A. These products may be labeled “broad spectrum.” Most sunscreens with SPFs of at least 15 afford some such protection.

* Be generous with sunscreen on all uncovered areas except the eyes. Most people apply only enough to get half the protection they could get from the product, experts say.

* Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going into the sun so that the active ingredients have time to be absorbed into the skin.

* Reapply sunscreen frequently, since it tends to rub or wash off. Choose a water-resistant or waterproof product when swimming or perspiring heavily.

* Consider a sun block stick or cream for sensitive areas such as the lips, nose, scalp and ears. Zinc oxide now comes in fun, bright colors.