BHealthy Blog

Sun’s Out, Sunscreen On!

4 Facts You May Not Know About Sunscreen

From beach vacations to family picnics to weekends spent on the lake, summer activities are some of the most-anticipated of the entire year – and to enjoy them to the fullest, you’ll need plenty of sunscreen. An essential part of any skincare routine, sunscreen combats signs of aging and helps prevent skin cancer. Learn more about sunscreen and how it can keep your summer fun healthy and burn-free by reading the facts below.

Sunscreen bottles

1. Not all sunscreens are created equal.

The sunscreen you choose is almost as important as wearing it every day. Look for a formula that protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays and is at least 30 SPF. You should also consider the activity you’ll be wearing the sunscreen for, and choose a formula accordingly. For example, choose a waterproof option if you plan to swim or exercise.

Hands squeezing sunscreen bottle

2. You need sunscreen every day.

Your skin should always be protected, even if you don’t plan to spend an extended amount of time in direct sunlight. Seemingly safe situations, such as driving in your car or spending time outside on a cloudy day, can result in sun damage. Begin every day by applying sunscreen to your face, as well as any other parts of your body that will be exposed to sun.

Woman putting on sunscreen

3. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going outside.

For maximum effectiveness, give your sunscreen time to soak into your skin by applying 30 minutes before going outside. If you wait until you’re already outdoors, you risk sweating away or rubbing off your sunscreen, leaving you less protected.

Woman putting sunscreen on child

4. Reapply your sunscreen regularly.

Sunscreen is typically only effective a couple hours, making regular reapplication an important step in your sun protection routine. Reapply at least every two hours, as well as after swimming or sweating.

Nothing spoils your favorite warm weather pastimes like a sunburn. Make this summer one of the best ones yet by making sunscreen part of your daily skincare routine, and keeping your skin protected from the sun’s harsh rays. Get more tips on how you can have a safe, healthy summer.