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The effectiveness of sunscreen is measured by its Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The SPF indicates how much longer a person can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to their skin's natural protection. For example, if a person's skin would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun, an SPF 30 sunscreen would allow them to stay in the sun for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30 SPF).
It's important to choose the right sunscreen for your skin type and activity level. For people with sensitive skin or who are prone to acne, it's best to use a fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic sunscreen. Those who are physically active or swim regularly should choose a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
To get the most out of your sunscreen, it's important to apply it correctly. Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. It's recommended to use at least one ounce of sunscreen (about a shot glass full) for each application.
Sunscreen is not just for beach days. It should be worn daily, even on cloudy days, as up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can penetrate clouds. Additionally, UV rays can reflect off surfaces such as water, sand, and snow, which can increase the risk of skin damage.
In conclusion, sunscreen is an essential tool for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. By choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type and activity level, applying it correctly, and wearing it daily, you can reduce the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. So, make sure to make sunscreen a part of your daily routine, and stay safe in the sun!