Common Mistakes Rob Sunscreen of Its Protective Power

You've applied sunscreen and are now protected from the sun's damaging rays, right? Probably not. Most people improperly use sunscreen, leaving their skin open to sunburn, cancer, and premature aging, according to Noreen Nicol, M.S., F.N.P., Chief Clinical Officer at National Jewish.

"Most people fail to take full advantage of the protective power of sunscreen," said Nicol. "A sunscreen achieves its sun protection factor (SPF) rating only when applied properly." Nicol suggests three tips for more effective use of sunscreen:

• Slather it on. Most people apply about half as much sunscreen as they should, which means that an SPF 15 lotion is really providing an SPF of about 7 or less. For adequate head-to-toe protection you should apply about one ounce of sunscreen each application.
• Apply early. Sunscreen needs to soak into the skin to be effective. You should apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before heading outside.
• Reapply. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. It can also get rubbed or washed off. Although a broad spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, can protect the skin for up to two and half hours, it is wise to reapply more often. "Most people should reapply sunscreen once every couple of hours to be safe," says Nicol.

 In addition to using sunscreen correctly, you can take several additional measures to ensure protection from the sun. Nicol suggests three practices beyond sunscreen that can prevent harm from the sun:

• Plan outdoor fun (basketball, camping, etc.) before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. to avoid the sun's most direct and harmful rays.
• Look cool and stay protected with shades. Wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
• Wear long pants, shirts, and hats for additional protection.

"There is no such thing as a healthy tan," says Nicol. "A tan is the skin's way of telling you that you have been injured by harmful ultraviolet rays."

National Jewish is the only medical and research center in the United States devoted entirely to respiratory, allergic and immune system diseases, including asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, severe allergies, AIDS, cancer, and autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Founded in 1899, National Jewish is dedicated to enhancing innovative clinical programs for treating patients regardless of age, religion, race or ability to pay.