Most people know they should wear sunscreen. But a random application here and there won’t cut it if you’re out of doors much.
The basics
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB, with SPF 30 or higher — DAILY! But what if it’s cloudy outside? Clouds block a lot less UV than most people realize. Apply it 15-20 minutes before heading out so it has time to bind to your skin.
Reapplication
Sunscreen isn’t meant to be a one-off. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for long, and if you’re swimming or sweating, reapply the moment you towel off, even if the label says “water-resistant.” By FDA rule, that only means 40-80 minutes of protection in water, not all day.
A quick hack
When your shadow is shorter than you are tall, UV is at its worst. That’s your cue to reapply, seek shade, or both.
A few situational tips
- Snow, sand, and water reflect UV back at you. Extra caution (and sunscreen) is in order.
- Some medications increase sun sensitivity — certain acne treatments and some birth control formulations included. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you’re on anything that might affect this.
- Kids need it more, not less. Their skin is more sensitive than adult skin, so don’t skimp on reapplication.
- If you’re minimizing sun exposure, get your vitamin D elsewhere — fatty fish, fortified dairy, fortified cereals.
Tanning beds and self-tanners
Best to skip the tanning bed. The WHO now classifies tanning beds as a Group 1 carcinogen — the SAME category as tobacco. If you want color, self-tanners and spray tans give it to you without the UV. (I used tanning beds myself years ago, back when they weren’t classified this way — science knows more about it today.)
When to see a dermatologist
Sunscreen is one of the best investments you can make in your skin’s long-term health, so don’t overthink whether it’s “worth it.” And if you notice a new or changing spot on your skin, get it checked — skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early. I know this firsthand: I noticed a spot on my husband’s back years ago and told him to get it checked. It was caught early. That trip to the doctor mattered.
Note: This content is for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional dermatological or medical advice. Please see our full Disclaimer.
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