This holiday weekend usually marks the unofficial summer season kicks off.
While having a good time should be a priority, making sure to protect yourself from the sun’s ultraviolet rays should also make the list.
While using sunscreen seems like an obvious tip when it comes to protecting yourself from the sun, it turns out some products are more effective than others.
The Environmental Working Group recently released its annual guide to sunscreens.
After reviewing 1,300 sunscreens, the EWG realized that some were containing ingredients that can be harmful to people’s health.
Scientists are encouraging folks to look for sunscreens with ingredients zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Additionally, they want everyone to apply at least SPF 15.
“We always recommend reapplying sunscreen when you’re outside for more than two hours,” registered nurse Krystelle Norskow said. “Anytime you’re sweating, anytime you’re swimming, getting in and out of the water, you need to be reapplying.”
However, the report stated that people should avoid any SPF higher than 60. Experts fear that these high numbers are giving locals a false sense of security.
Additionally, always apply directly.
“When you’re spraying it, you’re not sure how much is getting on your child or your spouse, or whoever you’re helping to apply,” Norskow said. “So, it’s really recommended that you buy the lotion.”
Other ways to protect yourself from the sun include finding or making shade as well as wearing hats and sunglasses. But a container of sunscreen should be your best friend if heading out to the beach this summer.
“If we don’t wear sunscreen, we’re going to have signs of premature aging,” Norskow said. “We can get sunspots, and of course the worst thing is skin cancer.”
When applying sunscreen to the face, it’s best to apply at least half a teaspoon.
And for the body, at least enough to fill a medicine cup.
