Overview
- Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors so it fully absorbs into the skin before sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen to exposed areas 15 to 30 minutes after initial exposure and always after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Understand that SPF measures protection against UVB burns while star ratings indicate UVA defence and that both rays contribute to skin cancer risk.
- Check expiry dates and note that most sunscreen bottles remain effective for up to 30 months but lose potency once opened.
- Keep infants under six months out of direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm and apply at least SPF 30 to children’s exposed skin from March through October.