According to the U.S. Adopting protective habits like applying broad-spectrum sunscreen and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses helps mitigate the dangers of UV rays across the year.
Understanding Year-Round UV Exposure and Skin Risks
Sun damage happens regardless of the weather. According to the U.S. This exposure can cause sunburn, early skin aging (such as skin spots, wrinkles, or “leathery skin”), eye damage, and skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S.
Even on an overcast day, up to 80% of the sun’s rays can get through the clouds. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Did you know? Sunlight reflecting off sand, water, or even snow further increases exposure to UV radiation and raises your risk of developing eye problems.
How to Choose and Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Correctly
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to evaluate sunscreen products to ensure they are safe and effective. Although all sunscreens help protect against sunburn, only broad-spectrum sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 help protect against the UV rays that increase the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. In general, the FDA recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, even on cloudy days.
An average-size adult or child needs at least one ounce of sunscreen to evenly cover the body. Apply sunscreen liberally to all uncovered skin, especially your nose, ears, neck, hands, feet, and lips. If you don’t have much hair, apply sunscreen to the top of your head or wear a hat. Reapply at least every two hours. Apply more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Pro Tip: If your sunscreen doesn’t have an expiration date printed on it, throw it out three years after you bought it. Certain spray sunscreens were pulled from shelves because of benzene contamination, so check whether your sunscreen is on the recall list and stop using it if it is.
Protecting Your Eyes From Solar Radiation With Quality Sunglasses
Sunlight reflecting off sand, water, or even snow further increases exposure to UV radiation and raises your risk of developing eye problems. When choosing sunglasses, choose sunglasses with a UV400 rating or “100% UV protection” on the label. These sunglasses block more than 99% of UVA and UVB radiation and provide the most protection against UV rays.
Do not mistake dark-tinted sunglasses as having UV protection. The darkness of the lens does not indicate its ability to shield your eyes from UV rays. Many sunglasses with light-colored tints – such as green, amber, red, and gray – can offer the same UV protection as very dark lenses. When you wear tinted glasses, your pupils dilate and can increase exposure of your retinas to UV light. Be aware that children should wear sunglasses that indicate the UV protection level. Toy sunglasses may not have UV protection.
Essential Safeguards Beyond Sunscreen
No sunscreen completely blocks UV radiation. So other protections are needed, such as protective clothing, sunglasses, and staying in the shade. Limiting your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense. Wearing clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun, such as long-sleeve shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brim hats.
Be especially careful if you have: Pale skin, Blond, red, or light brown hair, Been treated for skin cancer, A family member who has had skin cancer. If you take medications, ask your health care professional about sun-care precautions. Some medications may increase sun sensitivity. Consult a health care professional before applying sunscreen to infants younger than 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can water-resistant sunscreen protect me all day while swimming?
No sunscreen is waterproof. Water resistance claims, for 40 or 80 minutes, tell you how much time you can expect to get the labeled SPF-level of protection while swimming or sweating. Manufacturers may not make claims that their sunscreens are “waterproof” or “sweat proof.”
Are spray sunscreens safe to use?
Spray sunscreens can catch fire. Many spray sunscreens contain alcohol, which is flammable. Always read the warning label and keep these sprays away from open flames. Certain spray sunscreens were pulled from shelves because of benzene contamination.
What sunscreen dosage forms are legal to market?
Only sunscreens in lotion, cream, stick, gel, oil, butter, paste, ointment, spray, and powder dosage forms can be legally marketed. Sunscreen in all other dosage forms – including wipes, towelettes, body washes, and shampoos – cannot be legally marketed.
Do expensive sunglasses offer better UV protection?
Pricier sunglasses don’t ensure greater UV protection. Choose sunglasses with a UV400 rating or “100% UV protection” on the label.
What daily sun protection habits do you practice during the winter months? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, and explore our site for more health and safety updates.
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