Sun protection is an everyday essential, not just something to think about at the beach. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer, while UV exposure can also affect the eyes.
Here are five common sun protection mistakes to avoid.
Also see: Tips to finding the best SPF for your skin type
1. Using too little sunscreen
One of the most common mistakes is applying an insufficient amount of sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is recommended, and it should be applied generously to exposed skin.
Remember often-missed areas such as the ears, neck, hands and tops of the feet.
2. Forgetting to reapply
Ringpharm warns against treating sunscreen as a once-a-day product. Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors, and sooner after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Water and perspiration can reduce the amount of sunscreen remaining on the skin.
3. Relying on sunscreen alone
Sunscreen works best as part of a broader sun-protection routine. Seek shade, particularly around the middle of the day, and wear tightly woven clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
The World Health Organization recommends sun protection when the UV Index reaches 3 or above.
Also see: 7 Surprising benefits of getting sunlight every day
4. Assuming cloudy days are safe
Cloud cover does not eliminate UV exposure. UV radiation can still reach the ground when the sky is overcast, so sun protection remains important whenever UV levels are elevated.
5. Assuming darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen
Melanin offers some natural protection from UV radiation, but it does not replace sunscreen. Mediclinic emphasises that people with darker skin can still experience sun damage, including hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and premature ageing.
Using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, alongside shade and protective clothing, remains an important part of everyday sun protection.
Also see: The last safe window to treat sun damage and pigmentation before summer
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