It turns out we have been applying sunscreen incorrectly all this time
Sunscreen is the skin's "seatbelt." It is important to use it as part of your daily routine, but it is just as important to use it correctly. An expert explains how to choose the right cream, what the common mistakes in application are, and how to avoid them.
The Israeli sun accompanies us almost every day: on the way to work, in the garden, in the car, at the beach, and even next to a lit window. Sunscreen is an important tool, but it is only effective when chosen correctly, applied in sufficient quantity, and renewed on time.
A sunburn is the immediate and most familiar sign of radiation damage, but it is only part of the story. Significant exposure in childhood and repeated exposures to UV radiation accumulating over the years contribute to premature aging of the skin, spots, wrinkles, and most importantly — skin cancers, which can be fatal. In a country like Israel, protection from the sun is not a matter of vacation or the beach alone, but part of a daily health routine.
The problem is that many use sunscreen in a way that gives a sense of security, but in practice provides only partial protection: they apply too little, forget exposed areas, do not renew after water or sweating, and sometimes use a product that was opened long ago and has lost its effectiveness. Sunscreen is an important means of protecting the skin, but it does not grant permission to stay in the sun without limits. To reduce the risk of sun radiation damage, it should be combined with staying in the shade as much as possible, wearing light and dense clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. In addition, a one-time application in the morning is not enough if you spend hours outside the house, so it is important to renew the application according to the instructions, especially after sweating, swimming, or wiping with a towel.
How to choose sunscreen?
For most people, it is recommended to choose a product with SPF50 and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation. It is worth adapting the texture to your lifestyle and skin type: a light or non-comedogenic liquid formula for oily and acne-prone skin, a richer product for dry skin or for patients on retinoids, and specialized products for contact with water, for the face, lips, makeup, sports, or children. The variety of products these days is so diverse that there are even those with a tint that mimics face makeup, so that every person can find a product for themselves, and the more pleasant the product is to the person, the greater the chance they will use it correctly and regularly.
Infants and children
For infants and children, the skin is more sensitive, so the main protection is preventing direct exposure: staying in the shade, wearing a hat, light clothing that covers the skin, and using a protected stroller. For infants under six months, the recommendation is not to expose them to direct sun at all. From six months and older, you can use specialized products for children, preferably mineral ones, and apply to any area not covered by clothing.
Five most common mistakes
-
Applying only when already outside. To allow the sunscreen to be absorbed and act optimally, it is recommended to apply it about 20 minutes before exposure to the sun.
-
Using too small an amount. Thin or partial application significantly reduces the effectiveness of the protection. An adult needs about 30 ml (a shot glass) to cover the entire exposed body. You can use the teaspoon rule: 1 for the face, 2 for the back and abdomen, 2 for the arms, 2 for the legs. It is important not to forget the ears, nape, hairline, back of the hands and feet, the décolleté area, and the lips. If you use a spray, remember that it is very easy to use them in an insufficient amount. Spray at a distance of 2.5 cm from the skin, apply generously until the skin is covered uniformly, and then go over with your hand to spread. On the face, do not spray directly: spray into the palm of your hand and apply carefully, while avoiding contact with the eyes and inhalation.
-
Not renewing the application. During prolonged exposure, sunscreen must be renewed every two hours. When swimming, sweating, or wiping with a towel — renew immediately. "Water resistant" does not mean the cream remains active all day.
-
Using an old product. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Before use, it is worth checking the expiration date, and if there is a change in smell, color, or texture — it is time to replace it.
-
Relying only on sunscreen. Sunscreen is only part of the protection from the sun. It is recommended to combine it with staying in the shade, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, wearing light and dense clothing, and wearing sunglasses with UV protection.
Dr. Meital Habar is the coordinator of the dermatology department, Southern District, Clalit.
