Q: Why is it important to wear sunscreen every day?

A: Daily sunscreen application protects your skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can reach your skin, so it’s essential to stay protected year-round.

Q: What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?

A: UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature aging and wrinkles. UVB rays affect the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburn. Both types of rays contribute to the risk of skin cancer, making broad-spectrum protection crucial.

Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen?

A: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Consistent reapplication ensures continuous protection from UV rays throughout the day.

Q: What does SPF stand for, and what does it mean?

A: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well sunscreen protects against UVB rays. For example, SPF 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning compared to not wearing sunscreen.

Q: Is it safe to use sunscreen on infants?

A: For infants under six months, it’s best to keep them out of direct sunlight and use protective clothing. For older infants, use a sunscreen specifically designed for their sensitive skin and apply it to exposed areas.

Q: Can I get enough vitamin D if I wear sunscreen?

A: Yes, you can still get enough vitamin D while wearing sunscreen. Small amounts of UV exposure can help produce vitamin D, but it’s safer to obtain it through diet and supplements rather than risking sun damage.

Q: What is reef-safe sunscreen, and why is it important?

A: Reef-safe sunscreen is formulated without harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs and marine life. Using reef-safe sunscreen helps protect our oceans and their delicate ecosystems.

Q: Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?

A: Absolutely! Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen even on overcast days to protect your skin from sun damage.

Q: How much sunscreen should I apply?

A: Use about a shot glass worth (1 ounce) to cover your entire body. Don’t forget to apply it to often-missed spots like your ears, back of your neck, and tops of your feet.

Q: Can sunscreen expire?

A: Yes, sunscreen can expire. Check the expiration date on the bottle and replace it as needed. Using expired sunscreen can reduce its effectiveness and leave your skin unprotected.