Mission Magazine - Sunscreen Update

Sunscreen Update

August 2007

Alarmingly, the majority of people use only 25 percent to 50 percent of the amount of sunscreen they should and do not use it consistently. Sunscreen does not eliminate sun exposure, but can be an effective tool in minimizing exposure to dangerous UV rays depending on how it is used.

Use a sun protective factor (SPF) of 30 or higher with both UVA and UVB protection.
Choose a sunscreen that contains both zinc oxide and titanium oxide.
Apply sunscreen thoroughly 20 to 30 minutes prior to exposure to the sun.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours no matter what level of SPF you use. If you perspire or swim, reapply more often.