Wear and apply sunscreen the right way

April 29, 2025

You’ve probably heard you need to use sunscreen every day, year-round. It should be your first step before leaving home.  

Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer and sun damage such as dark spots or sagging, lines and wrinkles in your skin.  

If you are spending your time outside, here are some good tips to protect you from the sun:

• Pick sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Put on more sunscreen at least every two hours.
• Use at least 1 ounce of sunscreen each time you apply.
• Cover areas such as the tops of feet and back of the neck.
• Put on sunscreen before and after swimming or exercising.
• Use a mineral-based sunscreen with an ingredient such as zinc oxide. It’s great for young children because it can be harder to wash off.
• Protect your head, nose, lips, ears and neck by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Cover up with UV-protective clothing.
• Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes.
• Avoid the sun during peak hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Look for shady areas to rest when you can.

For more information on the importance of using sunscreen and sunglasses, get these sun-safety tips* to help protect you, no matter the weather. 

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