How to Use Sunscreen Correctly for Sun Smart Skin Protection

Time at the golf course, pool, outdoor basketball court and lake all have one thing in common: exposure to the sun. Protecting your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is essential whether you plan to be outdoors for half an hour or all afternoon. Find out how to use sunscreen correctly to help safeguard your skin’s health.

The Benefits of Sunscreen

What does sunscreen do? It helps protect your skin in multiple ways. Using sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer and reduce premature signs of aging.¹

How to Choose Sunscreen

There are several factors to consider when selecting sunscreen.

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor): The SPF number indicates how well the sunscreen protects against UV rays. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends an SPF of 30 or higher.²
• Broad-spectrum: A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA (ultraviolet A) radiation makes up 95% of the UV rays and can pass through glass. It can cause skin cancer, skin aging, and damage to collagen and elastin. UVB (ultraviolet B) radiation makes up 5% of UV rays and can damage skin cells and lead to skin cancer.³
• Water-resistance: A water-resistant product can help sunscreen last longer when swimming or sweating, so this helps you stay protected during an afternoon at the lake, on a soccer field or in your yard.

How to Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen must be applied correctly to be effective. To protect your skin’s health, keep the following tips in mind.

• Apply accurately. Read the instructions for each type of application, whether it’s a spray, stick or lotion. Each type has its specifications regarding how much to use, how to apply it and cautions to be aware of (e.g., avoiding inhaling aerosol sprays).
• Apply early and often. Sunscreen isn’t immediately effective, so apply it 20 minutes before going outdoors. Then reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, exercising or working.⁴
• Apply year-round. Your skin needs protection in all seasons and weather conditions — not just sunny summer days. The sun’s UV rays can still cause sunburns on cloudy days.⁴ Plus, consider how the sun reflects off the snow in winter months.
• Apply thoroughly. Cover all exposed areas, including ears, scalp and lips (e.g., using lip balm with sunscreen).

Additional Measures for Sun Safety

In addition to using sunscreen, you can take additional precautions to maximize skin protection. To limit sun exposure, wear wide-brimmed hats, protective clothing and sunglasses with UV protection. Take breaks from the sun and seek shade between 10 a.m.–2 p.m.²

Practice Prevention with Purpose

Along with using sunscreen correctly to protect your skin, practicing other preventive measures can help optimize your health so your energy and attention can stay focused on advancing the Kingdom. Check out tips to stay healthy on vacation, explore top reasons to visit a dentist and learn about common preventive care services. For more information, contact us at Insurance@GuideStone.org or 1-844-INS-GUIDE (1-844-467-4843), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.

GuideStone^® welcomes the opportunity to share this general information. However, this article is not intended to be relied upon as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

¹Health.ClevelandClinic.org/how-to-choose-the-best-sunscreen-for-your-skin  
²AAD.org/media/stats-sunscreen    
³MDAnderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/what-s-the-difference-between-uva-and-uvb-rays-.h15-1592991.html  
⁴EPA.gov/radtown/ultraviolet-uv-radiation-and-sun-exposure