Sunscreen Tips

Tips for using sunscreen from the Cancer council NSW

Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside. Re-apply sunscreen every two hours.
If you are swimming or sweating, make sure that your sunscreen is waterproof and re-apply every couple of hours.
Apply zinc cream to your nose, lips and cheeks if you are going to be outside for long periods.
Sunscreen alone cannot extend the amount of time you can safely spend in the sun. Always wear sunscreen in conjunction with clothes, hats and sunglasses.
There are two types of sunscreen available:
Absorbers that act to soak up UV radiation and prevent it reaching the skin. Look out for sunscreen labelled 'broad spectrum'. This means it blocks out UVA and UVB rays, both of which contribute to sunburn, skin ageing and skin cancer.
Reflectors such as zinc cream that reflect UV rays away from the skin. These sunscreens should only be used on small areas of the skin as they can limit heat loss and perspiration.

What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for 'sun protection factor'. SPF30+ sunscreen is the highest protection factor available in Australia blocking out 96% of UV.
protecting children from the sun.

Dress children in SunSmart clothing and sunglasses. Get kids into the habit of wearing loose-fitting clothes with a close-woven fabric that covers a lot of skin. Make sure they always wear a broad-brimmed or legionnaires hat and broad spectrum SPF30+ sunscreen.
Keep little ones in the shade. Encourage children to play in shaded areas. If good natural shade is unavailable consider building a permanent or portable shade structure. The structure should be big enough to ensure that children can play comfortably within the shadow.
Always use sunscreen There is no evidence that using sunscreen on small areas of a baby's skin is associated with any adverse health effects. Look out for sunscreens that are formulated for children and baby's skin. These products are less likely to contain alcohol or fragrances that might irritate the skin. Apply sunscreen to any small areas of a baby's skin that cannot be protected by clothing, such as the face, ears, feet and backs of hands.
Keep babies out of the sun. Aim to keep babies out of the sun as much as possible especially during the times of peak UVR. When outdoors, protect your baby's skin with loose- fitting clothes and a hat that shades their face, neck and ears. Provide shade for prams, strollers and play areas.

more. Cancer Council NSW