1
I can’t get skin cancer, because my normal routine (such as work, drive to work, hobbies, and vacations) doesn’t include any outdoor activities.
2
My husband should use sunscreen at football games, even though he only goes (and gets a burn!) once or twice a year.
3
If I’m wearing sunscreen, I can stay in the sun as long as I want.
4
A sunscreen labeled SPF 30 blocks twice as much UV radiation as one labeled SPF 15.
5
It’s safe to let my children stay in the pool all day if they put on a t-shirt after a couple hours and reapply sunscreen to their faces, arms, and legs.
6
How often do you need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen?
7
Getting a “base tan” at an indoor tanning salon is as good way to prevent sunburn when I go to the beach later this summer.
8
What are the two most common (and painful!) sunscreen mistakes?
9
Now put it all together. You applied sunscreen at 12:00 noon for an afternoon of reading beside the pool. At 2:00 p.m., which one of the following actions would best protect your skin?
The Correct Answer is move to the shade.
While all 3 actions may help, getting out of the mid-day sun is the best choice in this situation. Seeking shade is a key element in preventing skin cancer, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun tends to be the hottest.
The sundress blocks very little UV radiation because it’s made of cotton. It compares to a sunscreen rated SPF 4. Covering up is the right idea, but dark colors, tight weaves, and clothing labeled at least UPF 30 work better.
Sunscreen should not be used to extend your time in intense sunlight. Sunscreen is an important part of protecting your skin, but it does not provide total protection. To get the most from sunscreen, choose products of SPF 15 or higher that block both UVA and UVB rays, reapply at least every 2 hours, and use at least 1 ounce or a palmful for an adult.
