Sunscreens. The basics you should know.
2010-06-11 at 04:06 pm adminFrom Consumer Reports 2010.
Whatever sunscreen you choose, make sure it has an SPF of at least 30 (plenty for most people), and that it is labeled water resistant. Also:
- For full-body protection, adults should apply 2 to 3 tablespoons of lotion or cream 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating heavily.
- There aren’t any clear guidelines about how much spray to use. We checked the labels of the sunscreen sprays we tested and found that most simply recommended applying “evenly” and “generously” or “liberally.” (Most also recommend using in well-ventilated areas.) Some say to rub the sunscreen into the skin, while others don’t. All warn to keep the product out of the eyes and not to spray directly on the face. So read directions carefully.
- Don’t spray or rub sunscreen on clothes. Most of the products stained fabrics when applied directly and left for a day.
- Don’t use sunscreen after its expiration date because it might have lost its potency. If your sunscreen has no expiration date on the bottle when you buy it, mark one yourself with a permanent marker and throw out after two years.
- Don’t rely on sunscreen alone. Wear tightly woven clothing and a hat, limit your sun time, and seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Finally, take a quiz if you want to know what those ingredients in your sunscreen are all about.