- What is SPF? SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It indicates how much longer
you can stay in the sun after applying sunblock. This is based off of your self-protection
time, which is how long you can be in the sun without protection and not get burned.
(For example, if your self-protection time is 20 minutes and the SPF of your lotion is 4, you can
stay in the sun for a maximum of 80 minutes. A fully protective sun lotion has an SPF of over 20.)
- When do I need to apply sunscreen? Always apply sunscreen liberally before going outside. You can get sunburned even on cloudy days or in wintertime. You need to apply sunblock at least 15 to 20 minutes before going out in the sun. Remember to reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours, and after swimming, perspiring, and towel-drying.
- How much sunscreen is enough? For adequate protection, you need to be using at least 2 tablespoons (or a shot glass) to cover your body. It is also recommended to use a teaspoon full for your face (remember to get your ears and any exposed part of your
scalp!) Also, check out our Aloe for Lips Sunblock Balm, for specific protection of your lips. Make sure to wear a hat and sunglasses!
- Can SPF protection add up? If your make-up has SPF protection in it, and you put on a sunscreen, it will not add up your protection.
Example, if you wear a daily 15 SPF sunscreen, and have a moisturizer that is SPF 15, your protection will be 15, not 30.
Or, if you wear a daily 30 SPF sunscreen and a SPF 15 moisturizer, your protection will be 30 SPF.
- Does sunscreen expire? For sunscreen products that do not have an expiration date, it is best to replace them once a year.
- What time of day is the sun strongest? Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when it is usually strongest. This time period is when about half of the overall UV radiation exposure is obtained. If you have to be out, be sure to use plenty of Caribbean Breeze sunscreen! Dermatologists recommend that people with pale to moderate skin color use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day.
- What is the right protection for my children? Babies under 6 months of age should not be exposed to direct sun. With children over 6 months of age, sunscreen should be used. In addition to sunblock, make sure your children wear hats, and protective clothing
over their sunscreen. Darker colored shirts provide better protection than white shirts. Make putting on sunscreen cool and fun,
have your children watch you put it on yourself. Getting them in the habit of wearing sunscreen now, will make it
part of their healthy living routine later in life.
- Do we get 80% of sun exposure as children? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a recent study showed that we get less than 25 percent of our total sun exposure by age 18. So, although it is extremely important to start sunscreen habits when you are young, it is a myth that we get that much exposure as children.
