A dermatologist shares the 10 sunscreen rules we always forget
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Now’s not the time to relax on your sunscreen routine.
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Though you might be embracing a slower pace during these long summer days, from lighter schedules to later bedtimes, now’s not the time to relax on your sunscreen routine. During the high UV-index days common in July and August, sunburns can happen in as few as 10 minutes, notes Ava Shamban, MD, a dermatologist and founder of AVA MD Dermatology and SKIN FIVE Medical Spas. “The more we protect, the less we need to correct later,” she urges.
Ultraviolet (UV) light plays a key role in vitamin D synthesis and beneficial cellular responses, Dr. Shamban notes, but it can be harmful, too. Our DNA also absorbs the UV photons, which can result in damage and an inflammatory response in the short term, and diminishing the renewal capabilities of our skin in the long term. To best protect yourself and prevent future sun damage, she’s offering 10 rules to live by when it comes to sun protection this summer.
10 sunscreen rules to remember
1. Consistency is key
Use SPF daily. Dr. Shamban swears by the edict of “sunscreen 365,” which equates to covering up and using sunscreen, no matter the weather. For longer outdoor activities or more intensive sun, reapply sunscreen every 60 to 90 minutes and layer a hat or sun protective clothing, she notes.
2. Sun support can be found in food, too
The antioxidants found in dark berries and colorful veggies can offer extra support to repair sun damage and protect your skin, complementing your SPF. Think of it as inside-out sun protection.
3. Don’t forget your scalp
“Scalp is skin too,” Dr. Shamban reminds. Use a powdered brush-on sunscreen to treat your part, and wear a hat when outside when you can. But also try not to overlook these other often-neglected locations: ears, eyelids, tops of feet and between toes and fingers.
4. When in doubt, toss it out
Can’t find the expiration date on that tube you found in the back of your medicine cabinet? Toss it. “Age, heat and oxidation degrade SPF efficacy,” says Dr. Shamban, who suggests picking up new bottles annually. Using a sunscreen that’s potentially (or actually) past its expiration date could mean reduced protection—or even a possible skin reaction.
5. Be smart about storage
It seems like a smart idea to keep a sunscreen stick or tube in the car for those impromptu pool and playground days, but doing so could cause the formula to get too hot. As with age, heat will damage the product and render it ineffective, she notes.
6. Watch the windows
Glass windows in your home, office or car can block UVB rays, but may not sufficiently protect you against harmful UVA rays. If you’re frequently exposed to the summer sun through a window, Dr. Shamban recommends applying sunscreen every three hours—yes, even if you’re just indoors.
7. Stick with SPF 30 and above
In general, opt for a formula that’s above SPF 30—but there’s no need to go higher than SPF 50. Above that upper limit, the difference in protection is only miniscule, says Dr. Shamban.
8. Broad-spectrum is best
Always read labels carefully, she warns. Look for a broad-based sunscreen or sunblock that works against both UVA and UVB rays–it should say so right on the label.
9. Makeup with SPF isn’t enough
Most makeup with sunscreen does not offer enough true sun protection—or you may not be using enough of it to make a difference. “Tinted sunscreen is the better option,” says Dr. Shamban. Use a light lotion formula alone or under makeup as a primer.
10. Not all sunscreens are waterproof
Try to avoid making the mistake of thinking you’re wearing a waterproof formula in the pool—only to find out the hard way. You might want to switch between a daily non-waterproof version and a waterproof one for days when you’re more active. And if you’re doing a sport or water activity, take the time to towel off and reapply after. “More is always better, but you can be less generous if wearing a waterproof formula,” she notes.
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