Many people slather on sunscreen every day, but if you’re not choosing the right type or not using enough, it may not be working.
Dr. Cecilia Larocca, a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, recommends you use no less than SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours. Your sunscreen should also be broad spectrum, says Dr. Larocca, meaning it covers both UVB and UVA rays.
According to Dr. Larocca, people usually only get about 50% of the SPF on the label. So, if you’re using SPF 60, you’re really getting closer 30 SPF of protection. To make sure you’re getting the right protection, she also recommends using sunscreen every two hours and wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses.
According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, you should:
- Avoid sun exposure during peak hours when the sun’s rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside
- Use at least SPF 30 broad spectrum sunblock and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
Following these guidelines will help reduce your risk of skin damage and future skin cancer.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Dr. Cecilia Larocca is a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Read More
Many people slather on sunscreen every day, but if you’re not choosing the right type or not using enough, it may not be working.
Dr. Cecilia Larocca, a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, recommends you use no less than SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours. Your sunscreen should also be broad spectrum, says Dr. Larocca, meaning it covers both UVB and UVA rays.
Read More According to Dr. Larocca, people usually only get about 50% of the SPF on the label. So, if you’re using SPF 60, you’re really getting closer 30 SPF of protection. To make sure you’re getting the right protection, she also recommends using sunscreen every two hours and wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses.
According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, you should:
- Avoid sun exposure during peak hours when the sun’s rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside
- Use at least SPF 30 broad spectrum sunblock and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
Following these guidelines will help reduce your risk of skin damage and future skin cancer.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Dr. Cecilia Larocca is a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Read More
