Serious skin damage can happen in as
little as 15 minutes of sun exposure. Knowing how to select, apply and use
sunscreen correctly is crucial in preventing Melanoma, the most deadly form of
skin cancer.

When to
apply sunscreen:
  • Approximately 30
    minutes before being in the sun
  • Reapply
    sunscreen after swimming or strenuous exercise
  • Apply sunscreen
    often throughout the day if you work outdoors
How to
apply sunscreen:
  • Shake well
    before use to mix particles that might be clumped up in the container
  • Use on all parts
    of your skin exposed to the sun, including the ears, back, shoulders, and
    the back of the knees and legs
  • Apply thickly
    and thoroughly
What to
look for when buying sunscreen:

  • Select a sunscreen
    with SPF 15 or higher, and UVA and UVB protection
    • UVA is most
      common type of ray and is most likely to cause skin cancer
    • UVB less common
      but still causes damage resulting in sun spots and wrinkles.
  • Look for
    sunscreen containing Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide
  • Be aware of the
    expiration dates; some sunscreen ingredients might degrade over time
  • Try a sunscreen
    with different chemicals if your skin reacts badly to the one that you are
    using. Not all sunscreens have the same ingredients
The hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
are the most hazardous for UV exposure. Staying in the shade, wearing clothes
that cover your arm and legs, wearing sunglasses and hats are other easy
options to protect from sun damage.
And remember, clouds do not block UV
rays!