Overview

• UV rays penetrate clouds and glass so sunscreen is vital year-round, not just during peak sun hours
• Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or higher, noting that protection gains beyond SPF30 are minimal
• Proper application—including applying 15–20 minutes before exposure, using approximately one ounce or following the two-finger rule, and covering ears, neck and hands—is essential
• Sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours and immediately after swimming, sweating or towel-drying to maintain effective defense
• Supplementary SPF in makeup is insufficient for full protection and children older than six months should use mineral-based sunscreens for safe coverage