Sunscreen: what you may or may not know
There are several quality products on the market. Look for UVA and UVB protection.. If you have trouble deciding on which product to buy, ask your pharmacist.
What SPF to look for
If you apply sunscreen properly, an SPF of 15 can block more than 90% of the sun’s rays. If you have fair skin, are taking a photosensitizing medication (one that makes you more sensitive to sunlight) or are hypersensitive to the sun because of a health condition (e.g. lupus), use a product with SPF 30 or higher. The same advice holds true for people who work outdoors.
A little or a lot?
If you only use half of the recommended amount of sunscreen, your protection will be reduced accordingly. Two tablespoons is the minimum recommended amount to apply to your entire body, including legs, arms and face. Use a balm with SPF on your lips. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right products.
Once vs. several times a day?
If you are going to spend the entire day in the sun, apply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming. Always apply sunscreen to dry skin.
Find out what the UV index is.
The UV index indicates the intensity of the sun’s UV rays and will help you decide what type of protection you need. There are usually 5 different intensity levels.
Your Brunet-affiliated pharmacist has a MaSanté advice sheet on sun protection. Feel free to ask for it.
More questions?
Talk to your pharmacist. After all, your health is all that matters.
