If you have read our previous blog on understanding the importance of different types of sunscreen, you should now have a better awareness of the seriousness behind sun damage and how finding the right sunscreen is the first step in taking action to prevent skin cancer.
Which sunscreen should I use?
The best sunscreen for you is the one you will use every day. We all have different skin types and preferences, so it is important to consider those as well as the activities you will be doing. In general, look for sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and over, broad-spectrum, and, ideally, a TGA registration number.
Other things to consider
- Your skin type—Just like other skin care products, the right sunscreen for your skin type is important to avoid making your skin look too oily or dry. Most sunscreens indicate the type of skin that they are suitable for.
- Tinted or non-tinted—If you are prone to pigmentation issues or melasma, tinted products containing iron oxide are better for you against hyperpigmentation. Otherwise, you can use a non-tinted sunscreen and apply foundation/makeup on top.
- Scented or non-fragranced – Scented sunscreen mask the sunscreen smell and makes it more pleasurable to use. However if you have sensitive skin we recommend you go with non-fragranced to minimise the risk of skin irritation.
- Water-resistant -This is a good feature to look for in sunscreen. This is not equivalent to ‘waterproof’ (no sunscreen is waterproof) and must be reapplied at the recommended interval for optimal protection.
Not all sunscreens contain the same ingredients. If your skin reacts to a particular sunscreen, talk to a chemist or doctor about choosing one with different ingredients. Most sunscreens last about two to three years from the date of manufacture and should be stored at a temperature below 30ºC.
Applying sunscreen
When applying sunscreen:
- It is important to apply enough. You need at least one teaspoon per limb, one for the front of the body, one for the back, and one for the head. A full-body application for an adult should be at least 35mL or seven teaspoons. A helpful rule is the ‘two-finger length rule’ for the face—apply two finger lengths worth of sunscreen to your entire face.
- When applying sunscreen, use a gentle stroke in one direction and spread evenly. There is no need to rub in.
- It is recommended to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors to allow enough time for it to work.
- If you spend time outdoors, you should apply sunscreen every 2 hours. Sunscreen can be wiped off, sweated out, or washed off during water activities.
- Sunscreen in babies under six months is not recommended. The main forms of sun protection for babies should always be protective clothing, hats and shade.
What about vitamin D?
Australians shouldn’t expose themselves to potentially harmful UV to get more vitamin D. Studies suggest that prolonged sun exposure doesn’t cause vitamin D levels to continue to increase. When UV levels are three or above, most Australians get enough vitamin D with just a few minutes of sun exposure while completing day-to-day tasks such as walking to the local shops.
Be fully protected
Sunscreen should not be used as the only line of defence against UV. The best defence against UV damage is achieved when multiple methods are used together. When the UV Index is three or above, be sure to protect yourself in five ways:
- slipping on sun-protective clothing
- slopping on SPF50 or broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen
- slapping on a broad-brim hat, not a cap
- seeking shade when possible, and
- sliding on sunglasses.
At Palmyra Skin Clinic Perth, we stock a range of La Roche Posay Anthelios sunscreen designed for a broad range of skin types. Utilising Meroxyl technologies, patented by L’Oreal, providing the highest protection against UV damage. Designed together with a dermatologist and with sensitive skin in mind, there is an Anthelio sunscreen for everyone available at Palmyra Skin Clinic– Contact us for a skin check or to find out more information on how to best care for your skin health.