Even when the sky is cloudy, or even during winter time, UV radiation can still reach your skin. While it’s true that the amount is not as intense as during summer, still the skin may receive some damage. That’s why you need to protect yourself from this radiation, even during brief exposure to the sun.

There are all sorts of sunscreens available these days. There are water- and sweat-repellant ones. These are suitable for wearing at the beach or when playing outdoor sports. There are those in lotion or spray forms most suitable for application all over the body. For your nose, lips and eye areas, there are salves and sticks for easy application.

For sure you have often seen the word “SPF” on sunscreen products. Have you ever wondered what it is and what it stands for? SPF stands for “sun protection factor”. It indicates the amount of protection it can give your skin from harmful UV radiation of the sun. A product may have SPF 15, 30 or 50. Basically, the higher the SPF of the sunscreen you apply, the more protection you have.

Dermatologists recommend that sunscreen application should be done some 30 minutes before exposing yourself to the sun. This will give the protective chemicals to set in and work effectively. Make sure that you apply it liberally on exposed parts of the body. When you skimp on it, you might not get full protection.

Also, don’t expect for it to keep your skin from UV rays all day long. For prolonged exposure to the sun, it’s advisable to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. This is because it naturally wears off, not to mention stuff like sweating or using a handkerchief. The same is true with waterproof ones – they should be reapplied after a specific period of time.

Some people, however, may develop some form of skin irritation with use. If you have sensitive skin, you should first test the item you have bought before applying it. You do this by applying it on a small patch of your skin, then placing it under direct sunlight. If after some time redness, rash or itchiness occurs, it means you should go for a different brand.

There are also other ways to protect yourself from UV rays apart from applying sunscreen. As much as you can, bring an umbrella with you when going out. Conceal your arms by wearing shirts with long sleeves. Long pants and skirts are great for your legs. Wear tinted eye glasses and wide-brimmed hats for your face’s protection.

Try to limit your exposure to intense sunlight as much as possible. But if not, do yourself a favor: use sunscreens. This way, you can prevent yourself from getting sunburn and skin damage. And most especially, you are minimizing your risk for developing skin cancer.

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If used properly, sunscreens are an effective way to get protection from the sun. The sun rays that cause the most damage are UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays usually cause a damage that is readily noticeable like a rash or sunburn. UVA do not show these signs but are just as bad for causing sun damage.

There are various forms for sun protection. Special creams, lotions, ointments, and waxes can help to fight sun damage. Different forms act better on certain skin areas. Any protection used should have an SPF(Sun Protection Factor) listed on the container. An SPF of at least thirty is recommended, and in some cases even a high number is needed. For protection from both UVA and UVB rays, a broad spectrum solution is available.

There are some guidelines to follow to make the use of the sun protectors more effective. Application should be done at least thirty minutes before exposure to the sun. You should reapply at least every two hours, and more often if you have been swimming, sweating, or drying yourself off. An ounce of product should be used for each application, and the application should be even. If not, some areas of skin might not be protected. Using self-tanners does not negate the need for applying sun protection. They do not have a high enough SPF to be effective.

Although most people do not make the connection. Most wrinkles are caused by sun damage after extended exposure to the sun. A lack of skin protection from the dangerous rays of the sun, also accounts for many skin cancers that people suffer.

Vitamin D is usually absorbed through the sun, so ways should be found to get this nutrient. Tanning beds are just as dangerous as direct sun light. A tan is really never safe unless you use a self-tanner.

Make sure your sun protection is still good. Check the container for its expiration date. Water, sand, and snow all reflect the rays of the sun, so do not forget your sun protection when exposed to these. Also, just because a day is cloudy, you can still suffer damage from the sun.

Using these types of sun protections will help defray the effects of the sun somewhat, but you should also use other techniques as well. Make sure you wear UV sunglasses for eye protection. Remember that the sun is at its strongest between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. Try to limit your exposure during these times. You should go to shady areas if possible. Also be sure to cover any exposed skin will clothing. There are some laundry detergents that can make your clothing more protective. It is best not to use a lotion, cream, etc. Sun protection on babies under 6 months old. They should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible, and be covered adequately when exposure cannot be avoided.

Sunscreens are an excellent defense in the battle against sun damage. Using them along with following some common sense guidelines can help to protect you and your family.

There is absolutely no doubting the fact that an unbeatable way to protect yourself is to use effective sunscreens. We’ve got the inside info on the best sunscreen available.