Protection from the suns harmful rays is vital for maintaining beautiful, youthful looking skin as over-exposure to the sun can cause premature ageing and skin cancer. In addition to wearing a hat and avoiding the sun during the hottest hours of the day, products that contain sunscreen or SPF (sun protection factor) provide optimum sun protection. Sunscreen is available as lotion, spray or cream and is defined as a topical product that can either absorb or reflect the ultra violet rays to protect the skin. In Australia, the Cancer Council recommends sunscreen with SPF 30+ broad spectrum and water resistant for effective sun protection.
Sunscreen tips:
– Sunscreens should ideally be applied 15 minutes before going outdoors.
– Apply generously (thickly) and be careful not to miss any areas such as the ears and knees.
– Reapply every two hours especially after heavy perspiration or swimming.
– The higher the SPF number the better the protection.
