Six Things to Know about Sunscreen
- No sunscreen provides 100 per cent protection.
Use sunscreen with other sun protection measures such as limiting time in the sun, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and a hat, and wearing sunglasses.
- Sunscreen is safe to use.
In Canada, all sunscreens have passed a review by Health Canada and are given a drug identification number. Recommended sunscreens from the Canadian Dermatology Association
- Apply sunscreen on skin that is not covered by clothes or a hat.
Don't forget your face, neck, ears, and the back of your hands and feet. Use sunscreen lip balm to protect your lips.
- Read the label and try it out.
Choose a sunscreen that is labelled SPF 30 or higher, 'broad spectrum' (UVA and UVB protection), and 'water resistant'. Use a sunscreen that you like and find easy to use.
- Remember to use sunscreen.
Use sunscreen when the sun's UV rays are at their strongest, such as when the UV Index is three or higher, usually from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Apply sunscreen before other skin products. Re-apply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or towelling.
- Are you wearing enough sunscreen?
Most adults need two to three tablespoons of sunscreen to cover their body; one teaspoon of sunscreen to cover their face and neck.
Note: Sunscreen and babies
Do not put sunscreen on babies less than six months of age. Keep them out of the sun and heat as their skin and bodies are much more sensitive than an adult's.
For more information on sunscreen, visit the Canadian Dermatology Association.
Information adapted from the Ontario Sun Safety Working Group.
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